When I think about Irish Pea Salad, I am reminded of gatherings where simple ingredients come together to create something truly delightful. This dish has always been close to my heart because it celebrates freshness and balance. I first prepared it on a spring afternoon, wanting a salad that was both refreshing and satisfying. The bright green peas, combined with creamy dressing and crisp vegetables, make this recipe a family favorite that never fails to bring smiles to the table.
You will love this recipe because it is quick to make, light yet filling, and perfect for almost any occasion. Irish Pea Salad works equally well as a side dish for hearty mains or as a standalone option for light lunches. The cool creaminess of the dressing pairs beautifully with the sweet crunch of peas, making every bite a refreshing experience. It is also a recipe that appeals to both adults and children, which makes it ideal for family meals.
Another reason this recipe is worth keeping in your collection is its versatility. You can serve it during picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. It pairs nicely with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a simple sandwich. The salad can be made ahead of time, which allows the flavors to deepen, and it travels well, making it an excellent choice for gatherings outside the home.
Affordability is another strong advantage. Most of the ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find in any grocery store. Frozen peas, for instance, are inexpensive and available year-round, while the other components are simple pantry staples. This means you can create a fresh and delicious dish without stretching your food budget.
The ingredients for this Irish Pea Salad are uncomplicated, yet each one contributes to the overall flavor and texture. Sweet peas provide the base, while diced cheddar cheese adds richness. Red onion gives a sharp bite, and celery delivers crunch. A creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise and sour cream, ties everything together. For extra flavor, a little seasoning ensures the salad is well balanced. Optional additions like boiled eggs or herbs can make the dish even more customizable depending on your taste.
This recipe is one I find myself making often, not only because of how simple it is, but also because of how much joy it brings to the people who share it with me.
How to Prepare This Recipe
Irish Pea Salad is one of those recipes that surprises you with its simplicity. Despite using everyday ingredients, it delivers a refreshing flavor that feels unique. Preparing it does not require advanced cooking skills, which makes it accessible to anyone, even if you are new in the kitchen. All you need to do is gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and in a short time, you will have a creamy and crunchy salad ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
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Prepare the peas:
Start with frozen peas, as they are convenient and available year-round. Measure the needed quantity, then place them in a colander. Rinse under cold running water until thawed. This method keeps the peas bright and fresh without losing their crisp texture. Allow them to drain completely to prevent excess water from diluting the dressing. -
Chop the vegetables:
Dice the red onion into small pieces so that it blends smoothly into the salad without overpowering it. Slice the celery finely to bring a subtle crunch. The balance between creamy dressing and crisp vegetables is what makes this dish so satisfying. -
Prepare the cheese:
Use a block of sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Cut it into small cubes instead of shredding, since cubes add a nice bite and complement the round peas. The salty and rich flavor of cheddar pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the peas. -
Optional additions:
Some versions include hard-boiled eggs, which add protein and a mild flavor. If you like a little freshness, you can chop fresh parsley or dill and sprinkle it into the salad. These additions are not required, but they can elevate the salad depending on your preferences. -
Make the dressing:
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream in equal parts. Stir until smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you prefer a slightly tangy flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon juice. This creamy dressing binds all the ingredients together and ensures the salad feels rich but not heavy. -
Combine everything:
In a large mixing bowl, place the peas, diced red onion, celery, and cheddar cubes. Pour the dressing over the top. Gently fold the mixture until all ingredients are evenly coated. Take your time with this step so that the peas remain whole and the dressing covers every piece. -
Chill before serving:
For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to blend, and the dressing slightly thickens as it chills. The result is a salad that feels balanced and refreshing.
Quick and Easy
One of the best parts of making Irish Pea Salad is how quickly it comes together. From preparation to finishing, the entire process can be done in less than 20 minutes, with most of the time spent chopping vegetables and mixing the dressing. The only waiting period is the chilling time, which requires no effort on your part. It is a recipe that fits perfectly into busy schedules, especially when you need a last-minute dish for dinner or a gathering.
Customizable
This salad is also highly customizable. You can adjust the dressing to suit your taste, whether by making it lighter with Greek yogurt or richer with extra mayonnaise. Adding boiled eggs provides extra protein, while herbs introduce freshness. For a bit of crunch, some cooks even sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts on top before serving. With so many options, you can tailor this recipe to your family’s preferences without losing its original charm.
Popular with Many People
Irish Pea Salad has a broad appeal because it strikes a perfect balance between creamy, sweet, and crunchy. It works for all ages, which makes it an excellent choice for family meals. Children enjoy the sweet peas and cheese, while adults appreciate the freshness and flavor combination. Because it is affordable, portable, and quick to prepare, it often appears at potlucks, family gatherings, and seasonal celebrations. No matter where it is served, it always receives compliments and requests for the recipe.
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Irish Pea Salad
Irish Pea Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and refreshing dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. It is budget-friendly, versatile, and ideal for family meals, picnics, or potlucks.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen peas, thawed and drained
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, diced into small cubes
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup celery, thinly sliced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Instructions
- Place frozen peas in a colander and rinse under cold running water until thawed. Drain well to remove excess moisture.
- Dice the red onion finely. Slice the celery thinly for crunch. Cut the cheddar cheese into small cubes. If using eggs, boil them, peel, and chop into pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream. Stir until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired. Mix until the dressing is well blended.
- In a large bowl, add peas, onion, celery, cheese, and eggs if using. Pour the dressing over the top.
- Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the peas while mixing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the flavors to develop fully.
- Before serving, stir gently and sprinkle fresh parsley or dill if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
Frozen peas work better than canned peas because they keep their color and texture.
For a lighter option, replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.
Fresh herbs add extra flavor, but they are optional.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: None
FAQs
Can I use canned peas instead of frozen peas?
It is best to use frozen peas because they stay firm and keep their bright green color. Canned peas are softer and may not give the salad the same crisp texture.
How far in advance can I make Irish Pea Salad?
You can prepare it one day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and the flavors will blend even more. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.
Can I lighten the dressing?
Yes, you can replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option. This adjustment keeps the salad creamy while adding extra protein and a slight tang.
What can I serve with this salad?
Irish Pea Salad goes well with roasted chicken, grilled beef, baked fish, or simple sandwiches. It is also perfect for potlucks and outdoor picnics.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Diced bell peppers, cucumber, or even shredded carrots can be mixed in for more crunch and variety. The base recipe is very flexible.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Yes, most children enjoy it because of the sweet peas and cheddar cheese. You can reduce the onion for a milder flavor if needed.