I love recipes that prove delicious food does not need to be complicated. This cold pea salad with red onion has been on my table more times than I can count, especially when I want something fresh, quick, and flavorful.
Sweet peas meet the gentle sharpness of red onion, all brought together with good olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon. It is bright, simple, and always a hit, whether served at room temperature for a casual lunch or chilled alongside a summer meal.
The dish reminds me why I always seek the sweetness of the peas for my side dishes. As you know, we French have a love affair with peas.
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Super easy and amazingly versatile, it can be enjoyed all year round.
In this Article
- Why you will love this recipe
- Ingredients needed to make this recipe
- Equipment Needed
- Step by step on how to make this delicious pea salad recipe
- Pro Tips
- What dishes can you enjoy with this recipe for pea salad?
- Variations and Substitutions
- Storing and Reheating
- Frequently Asked Questions
- If you enjoy this recipe for pea salad, you may want to try my other recipes.
- VIDEO: COOK ALONG WITH ME
- Cold Pea Salad
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe is super easy to make and ready in 10 minutes, making it a go-to anytime you do not know what to fix for a side.
Party perfect anytime, as you do not have to worry about spoiling if left out on your table for a long time, and it does not contain mayonnaise to worry about.
This budget-friendly recipe is the best option when you’re in a pinch and must make it for potlucks or gatherings.
Most ingredients are pantry-friendly; it would not surprise me if you already have them in the house.
Ingredients needed to make this recipe
This is a short introduction. The ingredient list is also brief. It includes essential items that you may already have in your pantry. Please read the recipe for complete instructions.
Frozen baby green peas: are smaller, tender, and always a favorite. Lightly cook them until they are a bit firm to the touch, then rinse them right away to prevent further cooking and mushiness. There is no need to thaw them prior to blanching.
Red onion: Slice it into super-thin slivers. It will release an amazing flavor yet not overpower your peas, which, in contrast, are softer in flavor and taste.
Olive oil: To add to the peas.
Lemon: adds that punch of flavor to the peas, and softens the onions
Salt and black pepper: your seasoning for this recipe. Adjust to your taste.
Equipment Needed
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Step by step on how to make this delicious pea salad recipe
With all my recipes, please assemble all the ingredients before cooking and baking. This recipe will go super fast.
- Bring salted water to a full boil and cook the frozen peas for about four minutes. They should still be crunchy to the bite, so do not overcook them.
- Drain them and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Dry them well with paper towels to remove any excess water.
- Place the peas in a serving dish and season with olive oil and lemon juice. Add slivers of red onion, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Stir well and serve.
Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Once cooked, run the cooked peas under cold water so they will keep their bright color and crunch as you stop the cooking process.
- Slice the red onion into very thin slivers. This will give you a fantastic flavor that balances the sweetness of your peas without overpowering them.
What dishes can you enjoy with this recipe for pea salad?
Peas are the most versatile side dish vegetable to prepare, and taste delicious with most meats, such as flat iron steak or roasted chicken.
If you prefer to prepare it alongside your seafood, I recommend broiled salmon with spicy maple syrup. It’s light and perfect for the perfect balance of flavors.
And if pork is on the dinner menu, our stuffed pork tenderloin is a favorite of the peas.
Variations and Substitutions
When in season, replace the frozen peas with fresh ones. Cook them a little longer. Proceed with the recipe as per the recipe card below.
Toss in finely chopped chives.
Storing and Reheating
Store: The leftovers for this pea salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Once ready to enjoy again, you can eat it cold or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do frozen peas need to be cooked for a salad?
No, frozen peas do not need to be cooked for a salad. They are usually steamed before freezing, which ensures that they are safe to eat.
Can you eat raw peas in a salad?
You can eat them raw in a salad. Shelled garden peas can also be enjoyed raw, although some may find them slightly starchy.
How long is pea salad good for in the fridge with mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise is a finicky ingredient that needs to be handled properly. Store your pea salad with mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a maximum of three days. I do not recommend freezing it, either, as the mayonnaise will break down and become very watery.
If you enjoy this recipe for pea salad, you may want to try my other recipes.
VIDEO: COOK ALONG WITH ME
Cold Pea Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen peas
- ½ cup red onion, chopped into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt
- pepper
- ½ lemon juiced
Instructions
- Bring salted water to a full boil and cook the frozen peas for 4 minutes until tender.
- Drain them well and pass them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Dry the peas slightly and place them in a salad bowl. Mix with the red onion, olive oil, and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve at room temperature or refrigerated
Notes
- Once cooked, run the cooked peas under cold water so they will keep their bright color and crunch as you stop the cooking process.
- Slice the red onion into very thin slivers. This will give you a fantastic flavor that balances the sweetness of your peas without overpowering them.
Nutrition
Giangi’s Kitchen provides nutritional information, but these figures should be considered estimates, as a registered dietician does not calculate them.
- Course: Salads, Dinners, Sides, Vegetables
- Cuisine: French
- Type: Affordable Gourmet, Under 45 minutes, Videos
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