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This creamy Irish pea salad became my go-to answer for a vibrant side during busy weeks or big family gatherings. With sweet peas as the star, sharp cheddar, and a refreshing tangy dressing, you end up with a dish that is as colorful as it is comforting. I love pulling it together ahead of time and knowing the flavors will only get better by dinnertime.
I first brought this salad to a St Patricks Day gathering years ago and now the family expects it at every event. Even my nephew who usually avoids anything green goes back for seconds and that feels like a total win.
Ingredients
- Frozen peas: the sweet highlight and backbone of the salad pick peas with a vibrant green hue for the freshest flavor
- Cheddar cheese: brings creamy richness choose sharp blocks and cube them yourself for the very best taste
- Celery: adds a light crunch slice it thinner for even forkfuls
- Red bell pepper: gives pop and color select a firm smooth skinned pepper
- Red onion: gives a sharp bite and contrast soak slices in cold water if you prefer mildness
- Mayonnaise: makes a creamy base classic full-fat brands add a richer taste
- Sour cream: lightens and gives needed tang use thick creamy options
- Apple cider vinegar: brings gentle sharpness look for unfiltered or raw versions for depth
- Sugar: rounds out the flavors use just enough for balance
- Salt and black pepper: finish and tie everything together use fresh cracked pepper for zip
Instructions
- Prepare The Vegetables:
- Ensure peas are thawed completely and well patted dry with a towel for a crisp salad. Cube the cheddar so each bite matches the size of the peas. Finely chop celery bell pepper and red onion into uniform pieces so every forkful gets plenty of crunch and flavor.
- Mix The Salad Components:
- In a large mixing bowl combine peas cheese celery bell pepper and red onion. Toss gently to avoid mashing the peas and maintain the textures.
- Create The Dressing:
- Whisk mayonnaise sour cream apple cider vinegar sugar salt and pepper in a separate bowl. Taste and adjust the salt and vinegar so you have a balanced tartness.
- Combine And Chill:
- Pour the dressing over the pea and veggie mix. Fold ingredients together with a spatula just until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour preferably up to two to allow flavors to blend completely.
- Final Touch:
- Give the salad a gentle stir just before serving. Taste for seasoning and adjust if needed. Sprinkle extra cheese cubes on top for a colorful finish.
The red bell pepper wins me over each time in this salad. It is not always used in traditional recipes but I find its sweet flavor and bold color make the whole dish feel festive and full of life. My grandmother always said food should look as good as it tastes and this dish always draws a cheer when I set it out.
Make It Your Own
There are endless ways to adapt this salad based on what you have or crave. Add crisp bacon or bits of ham for extra protein or keep it vegetarian and toss in hard boiled egg for added richness. Go lighter by swapping Greek yogurt for sour cream. I often stir in chopped dill or flat leaf parsley for a garden-fresh lift.
Perfect Pairings
Irish pea salad is ideal next to corned beef roasted chicken or even a vegan loaf. I love it during summer months with grilled salmon or as a colorful option at a picnic instead of potatoes. For real Irish flair serve it with crusty soda bread and a tangy apple cider.
Storage Tips
Store this salad in a sealed container in the fridge and it will stay fresh for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen after a night’s rest. If you assemble ahead for a party keep the cheese aside until just before serving to keep it perfectly tender and not soggy. Never freeze as the creamy dressing and veggies lose their texture.
Let everything chill and the flavors meld—just before serving sprinkle on herbs or cheese and enjoy the freshest, brightest taste. This salad is a true crowd-pleaser any time of year.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → How can I add variety to Irish pea salad?
Incorporate crispy bacon bits, swap the cheese type, or add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for added flavor complexity.
- → Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Yes, assembling it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Stir gently before serving for best results.
- → What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute, maintaining creaminess while providing a slightly tangier profile.
- → Are fresh peas suitable?
Absolutely. Blanch them briefly to preserve their vibrant color and crisp texture before adding to the salad.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir gently before serving again.