Creamy Pea Salad

Welcome to my kitchen! I am Hana, and today we are crafting a vibrant Creamy Pea Salad that perfectly captures the essence of spring. This dish combines the natural sweetness of tender peas with a silky, plant-based dressing and crunchy elements for a satisfying texture.

It is a quick, eco-friendly, and colorful addition to any meal. I guarantee this recipe will brighten your plate and your mood with its fresh, zesty flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pea Salad

• This recipe features protein-rich peas and heart-healthy seeds for a balanced, plant-powered boost.
• You can prepare this refreshing dish in less than fifteen minutes with simple pantry staples.
• The combination of smoky paprika and zesty lemon creates an irresistible fusion of bold flavors.
• This zero-waste friendly meal helps you use up leftover herbs and frozen vegetables effectively.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create the best Creamy Pea Salad, I always recommend sourcing organic and local ingredients whenever possible. Freshness is the key to unlocking the subtle sweetness of the legumes. If you use frozen peas, ensure they are high-quality and not freezer-burnt. The dressing relies on a balance of acidity and fat, so choose a high-quality vegan base that suits your dietary preferences.

Substitutions & Variations

You can easily adapt this Creamy Pea Salad by swapping sunflower seeds for toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds. For a lighter version, replace half of the vegan mayo with unsweetened soy yogurt to maintain the texture while reducing fat. If you enjoy spice, add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick.

For those who enjoy experimenting with textures, you can try a different spin by making a Creamy Cucumber Salad, which pairs beautifully with any pea salad. Check out the recipe here.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl for combining all ingredients.
• Small whisk or fork to emulsify the dressing components.
• Fine-mesh colander for rinsing and draining the peas.
• Sharp chef’s knife for precise dicing of the red onion.
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate proportions.
• Small skillet for toasting the seeds to golden perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your peas. If you use frozen peas, place them in a colander and run lukewarm water over them until they thaw completely. Drain them thoroughly to prevent a watery salad. For fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for two minutes, then immediately plunge them into an ice bath to preserve their bright green color.
2. While the peas drain, take a small skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the sunflower seeds and toast them for about three to five minutes. Stir them frequently until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Remove them from the heat immediately to avoid burning.
3. In a large mixing bowl, prepare the base of your Creamy Pea Salad. Combine the vegan mayo (or cashew cream), lemon juice, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until the dressing becomes completely smooth and pale orange from the paprika.
4. Finely dice the red onion. To reduce the sharp “sting” of the onion, you can soak the diced pieces in cold water for five minutes, then pat them dry. This step ensures the onion adds crunch without overpowering the delicate peas.
5. Add the drained peas, diced onion, and chopped fresh dill to the mixing bowl containing the dressing. Use a large spoon or spatula to fold the ingredients together gently. You want to coat every single pea in the velvety sauce without crushing them.
6. Once the peas are well-coated, fold in the toasted sunflower seeds. Reserving a few seeds for a final garnish helps maintain a beautiful presentation.
7. Taste your creation. Adjust the seasoning by adding a bit more lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of salt if needed. Consistency is vital; if the salad feels too thick, add a teaspoon of water or plant milk to loosen the dressing.
8. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least thirty minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to chill, which significantly improves the overall eating experience.

As you prepare your peas, ensure they’re perfectly thawed or cooked to maintain their vibrant color and taste. For a fun dessert to complement your meal, consider trying a delicious Creamy Gelatin Snack, which you can find here.

Pro Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect Creamy Pea Salad requires attention to detail regarding moisture and temperature. First, always ensure your peas are bone-dry before mixing them with the dressing. Excess water dilutes the flavor and prevents the cream from adhering to the vegetables. I often pat the peas with a clean kitchen towel after draining them.

Second, consider the texture. The contrast between the soft peas and the crunchy seeds defines this dish. If you plan to make this salad several hours in advance, wait until the very last moment to add the toasted seeds. This prevents them from becoming soggy while sitting in the dressing.

Third, play with your herbs. While dill is a classic choice, fresh mint or chives offer a completely different but equally delicious profile. Mint adds a cooling effect that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the peas, making it an excellent choice for hot summer afternoons. Chives, on the other hand, provide a subtle onion flavor that complements the red onion beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This Creamy Pea Salad stores exceptionally well in the refrigerator, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. Place any leftovers in an airtight glass container to keep the flavors fresh. It will remain delicious for up to three days. Note that the peas may release a little moisture over time, so give the salad a quick stir before serving it again to redistribute the dressing.

I do not recommend freezing this salad. The mayonnaise or cream-based dressing will likely separate upon thawing, and the texture of the peas will become unpleasantly mushy. Since this is a cold salad, there is no need for reheating. If the dressing has thickened too much in the fridge, simply add a tiny splash of lemon juice to revive the creamy consistency.

This Creamy Pea Salad is excellent for meal prepping, giving you a tasty dish ready for lunch or dinner. If you enjoy savory treats, don’t miss out on the Creamy Orange Gelatin for a sweet ending, available here.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This versatile Creamy Pea Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of plant-based main courses. I love serving it alongside roasted root vegetables, such as maple-glazed carrots or golden beets. The sweetness of the roasted veggies complements the creamy texture of the peas perfectly.

For a more substantial meal, serve this salad with crispy baked tofu steaks or a hearty quinoa pilaf. The salad acts as a refreshing side that cuts through the density of grains and proteins. If you are hosting a summer barbecue, it makes a fantastic accompaniment to grilled corn on the cob or plant-based burgers. The vibrant green color pops beautifully against charred vegetables, creating a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use canned peas for this recipe?

I generally advise against using canned peas for a Creamy Pea Salad. Canned peas tend to have a much softer, mushier texture and a duller color compared to fresh or frozen ones. For the best results, stick to frozen peas that have been thawed or fresh peas that have been lightly blanched. This ensures your salad has that signature “pop” and a bright, appetizing appearance.

How can I make this recipe nut-free?

This recipe is already naturally nut-free if you use a sunflower seed or soy-based vegan mayonnaise. If you are using cashew cream as your base, simply swap it for a sunflower seed cream or a thick, unsweetened soy yogurt. To maintain the crunch, stick with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, as they provide excellent texture without the use of tree nuts.

Is this salad suitable for a picnic?

Yes, this Creamy Pea Salad is a fantastic picnic choice! However, because it contains a creamy dressing, you should keep it in a cooler bag with ice packs if you are outdoors in warm weather. To keep it as fresh as possible, store the toasted seeds in a separate small container and sprinkle them over the top just before everyone starts eating. This keeps the crunch factor at its peak.

Creamy Pea Salad is a versatile dish that combines the natural sweetness of peas with creamy ingredients for a delightful texture and flavor. Explore the delightful world of this salad and its nutritional benefits in this comprehensive guide.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Creamy Pea Salad reminds us that simple, plant-based ingredients can transform into a gourmet experience. It celebrates freshness, color, and mindful eating in every bite. I hope this dish brings a sparkle of joy to your table and inspires you to explore more vibrant, eco-friendly flavors today!

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Creamy Pea Salad

A vibrant Creamy Pea Salad that combines sweet peas with a silky, plant-based dressing and crunchy elements for a satisfying texture.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 185

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups Green Peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 small Red Onion (finely diced)
• 1/2 cup Vegan Mayo or Cashew Cream
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/4 cup Sunflower Seeds (toasted)
• 2 tbsp Fresh Dill (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)

Method

 

1. Prepare the peas: thaw frozen peas or blanch fresh peas.
2. Toast the sunflower seeds in a skillet over medium heat.
3. In a bowl, mix the vegan mayo, lemon juice, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Dice the red onion and soak it in cold water for 5 minutes, then pat dry.
5. Combine drained peas, diced onion, and dill with the dressing in the bowl.
6. Fold in the toasted sunflower seeds, adjusting seasoning as needed.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure peas are dry before mixing to avoid watery salad. Add seeds just before serving for crunch.