Irish Pea Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing, vibrant side dish that brings both flavor and color to your table, look no further than this Irish Pea Salad. This salad is a combination of creamy, tangy, and crisp ingredients—think sweet peas, crunchy onions, and a luscious dressing that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just as a lovely addition to any meal, this dish has that perfect balance of richness and freshness. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love Irish Pea Salad

This dish is like a fresh breeze on a sunny day—bright, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. Here’s why this Irish Pea Salad will become your new favorite:

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a picnic in the park, or just a family dinner, this salad fits every occasion. It’s easy to make and pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes.

Creamy and Crunchy

The combo of sweet peas with the creamy dressing is already delicious, but the addition of crispy bacon and onions adds that extra crunch and savory goodness. It’s a delightful texture contrast in every bite.

Quick and Easy

You can make this salad in under 20 minutes! With no cooking required (other than cooking the bacon, if you choose to add it), it’s a great last-minute dish when you’re short on time but still want something special.

Kid-Friendly

With its mild flavors and fun textures, kids will love this salad! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without them even noticing.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this refreshing Irish Pea Salad:

For the Salad:

• Frozen peas (thawed)
• Bacon (optional, but totally delicious)
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Dressing:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar (for a touch of tang)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s make this Irish Pea Salad step-by-step:

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon (Optional)

If you’re using bacon, start by cooking it in a pan until crispy. Once cooked, crumble or chop it into small pieces. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies and Eggs

While the bacon is cooling, chop the hard-boiled eggs and slice the red onion thinly. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes to mellow them out.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, chopped eggs, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and bacon (if using). Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 450mg
Total Carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 12g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (for bacon)
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)

How to Serve Irish Pea Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

With Grilled Meats

Pair this salad with grilled chicken, steak, or burgers for a hearty and satisfying meal. The cool creaminess of the salad balances out the smokiness of grilled meats.

At a Picnic or BBQ

Bring this salad to your next barbecue or picnic. It’s a great side dish that can stand up to all the other flavors and will keep everyone coming back for more.

On Its Own

Sometimes, the best way to enjoy this salad is on its own. It’s light, refreshing, and filling enough for a snack or a light meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

Pair it with roasted vegetables, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, for a complete and colorful meal.

Additional Tips

Use Frozen Peas

Frozen peas are perfect for this dish because they retain their sweetness and texture when thawed. Plus, they’re super convenient and easy to work with.

Customize the Dressing

Feel free to adjust the dressing to your liking. For a little more tang, add extra vinegar or swap it for lemon juice. If you like a bit of sweetness, you can stir in a touch of honey or sugar.

Make It a Full Meal

To turn this salad into a complete meal, add some protein like grilled chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.

Prep Ahead

This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavors get even better after it has time to chill and meld together.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of cheese?

A1: Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can also use other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or even a sharp blue cheese for a little extra flavor.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?

A2: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving again.

Q3: Can I skip the bacon?

A3: Yes, you can skip the bacon for a vegetarian version of this salad. It’s still delicious without it, but if you like a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika as an alternative.

Q4: How long should I chill the salad?

A4: Chill the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. If you have more time, letting it sit overnight will only improve the taste.

Q5: Can I add other veggies to the salad?

A5: Yes! Feel free to add extras like diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even sweet corn for a unique twist.

Q6: Is this salad gluten-free?

A6: Yes, this Irish Pea Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

Q7: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

A7: Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will give the salad a slightly tangier flavor while adding extra protein.

Q8: How do I make this salad spicier?

A8: If you like heat, add some chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Q9: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

A9: While frozen peas are recommended for convenience and sweetness, fresh peas can be used if they’re in season. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the salad.

Q10: Can I make this salad vegan?

A10: Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the bacon and cheese, and swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for vegan versions.

Conclusion

This Irish Pea Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and fresh flavors that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal on its own, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s an easy dish to make whenever you want something quick and delicious. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be making it over and over again—because it’s just that good! So, grab those peas, whip up the dressing, and get ready to enjoy a fresh and tasty treat that everyone will adore. Happy cooking!

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