If you are searching for a fresh, comforting dish that ticks all the boxes in flavor and ease, you will absolutely fall in love with this Irish Pea Salad Recipe. It’s a vibrant medley of crisp peas, sharp cheddar, savory bacon, and a creamy tangy dressing that comes together effortlessly. This salad is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a colorful addition to any table, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. Once you try this Irish Pea Salad Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to side dishes to brighten up your meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in balancing taste, texture, and visual appeal. The simplicity of each component highlights freshness while creating a deliciously creamy and satisfying salad.
- 3 cups frozen peas, thawed: Opt for fresh-tasting peas even if frozen; they add a natural sweetness and beautiful green color.
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a rich, tangy bite that complements the peas perfectly.
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon: Adds irresistible smoky flavor and slight crunch, elevating the salad’s depth.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced: Delivers a subtle pungency that cuts through the creamy dressing with a bit of zest.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Acts as a creamy base that binds the salad ingredients with a smooth mouthfeel.
- 2 tablespoons sour cream: Adds tang and richness without overpowering other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Provides a mild acidity that brightens the overall taste and balances richness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essentials to enhance and round out all the flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Offers an herbaceous note and pretty pop of color for serving.
How to Make Irish Pea Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by placing the thawed peas in a large mixing bowl. Add the sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and finely diced red onion. Each of these ingredients brings texture and flavor that makes this salad special. Mixing them first ensures they’re evenly distributed before adding the dressing.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. This tangy and smooth dressing will coat the pea mixture wonderfully, bringing all the flavors into harmony.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently fold everything together to coat evenly without smashing the peas. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors marry into a beautifully balanced salad that bursts with every bite.
How to Serve Irish Pea Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To give this salad a fresh finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley just before serving. The parsley adds a lovely pop of color and subtle herbal brightness that complements the creamy and smoky notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
The Irish Pea Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or pork, enhancing your plate with cool, crisp textures and flavors. It’s also a fantastic companion to sandwiches or as a star side at outdoor barbecues or potlucks where you want to serve something that appeals to a crowd.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl! Serve this salad in individual clear glasses or mason jars for an elegant party presentation. You could also use it as a colorful, flavorful layer over leafy greens to create a stunning, fresh salad centerpiece that is sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pea salad stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. After sitting, the flavors deepen, but it’s best enjoyed within this time to keep the peas vibrant and the bacon crispy.
Freezing
Since this salad contains mayonnaise and fresh cheese, freezing is not recommended as the texture will be compromised upon thawing. It’s best to prepare fresh for each occasion.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold, so reheating is unnecessary. Simply take it from the fridge and enjoy the refreshing creaminess that makes it so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas, if in season, will add an even brighter flavor and a slightly different texture. Just blanch them briefly in hot water to keep their color and pop.
What can I substitute for bacon if I want a vegetarian version?
Try using smoked tempeh or roasted nuts like almonds or pecans to add a similar crunch and smoky element without meat.
Is there a lighter way to make this Irish Pea Salad Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or mayonnaise to reduce fat and add extra protein while keeping the creamy texture intact.
Can this salad be made ahead for a potluck?
Definitely. This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings and potlucks.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
Make sure to thaw peas fully and drain any excess moisture before mixing. Also, refrigerate the salad covered to avoid condensation causing sogginess.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to give this Irish Pea Salad Recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that bring people together with its bright flavors and creamy, comforting texture. Whether you’re making a simple weeknight dinner or preparing for a festive occasion, this salad will add just the right touch of freshness and charm. Trust me, once you taste it, it will become a cherished recipe in your collection.
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Irish Pea Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Irish Pea Salad is a creamy, vibrant side dish made with tender peas, sharp cheddar, crisp bacon, and a tangy dressing of mayonnaise and sour cream. Perfectly chilled, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it an ideal complement to roasted meats or sandwiches, especially for potlucks or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Pea Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the thawed peas, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced red onion until well distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and fully combined.
- Mix Salad and Chill: Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish the salad with chopped fresh parsley. Serve chilled as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for either the sour cream or mayonnaise.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or sandwiches.
- It is an excellent make-ahead side dish suitable for potlucks and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Irish-Inspired
