There’s something timeless about a fresh, colorful salad that brings both flavor and vibrancy to the table. The Irish Pea Salad is a perfect example—a creamy, slightly tangy dish filled with sweet peas, crisp vegetables, and sharp cheddar cheese. This salad isn’t just a side; it’s a conversation starter at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or summer barbecues. Its balance of textures—from tender peas to crunchy celery and bell peppers—combined with a luscious dressing, makes every bite satisfying. Simple to prepare yet full of character, it’s a dish that blends tradition with a touch of indulgence. Its vibrant colors alone are enough to make any table feel festive and inviting.
This salad is versatile, easy to adapt for dietary needs, and keeps well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining. Whether you’re seeking a classic dish to complement a hearty meal or a fresh addition to a lighter lunch, this creamy, colorful salad delivers on every level. The combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors makes it an instant favorite among kids and adults alike.
Recipe Overview
Irish Pea Salad combines thawed peas, diced cheddar cheese, crisp celery, red bell pepper, and red onion, all coated in a creamy, slightly tangy dressing. Chilled to allow flavors to meld, it’s a refreshing and colorful side dish perfect for any occasion. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, it’s a salad that always gets compliments.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
4 cups frozen peas, thawed
1 cup diced cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, diced cheddar cheese, chopped celery, chopped red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Pour the dressing over the pea and vegetable mixture, gently tossing to coat all ingredients evenly. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Give the salad a gentle stir before serving.
Tip: For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives before serving. For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Cooking Tips & Variations
This Irish Pea Salad is incredibly versatile. You can swap cheddar for a sharper cheese like aged gouda or pepper jack for a mild kick. Add-ins like crumbled bacon or toasted almonds can provide extra texture and flavor. For a tangier twist, substitute apple cider vinegar with lemon juice. You can also make it ahead of time and refrigerate it for several hours, which enhances the flavors even more. This salad works well as a side for barbecues, picnics, potlucks, or even as a light lunch on its own. Adjust the sugar in the dressing to balance sweetness and tanginess to your taste.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Store Irish Pea Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or sandwiches. Its creamy texture complements a variety of dishes while adding a vibrant, colorful element to the table. For a picnic or potluck, transport it in a sealed container and chill until ready to serve.
Irish Pea Salad is a bright, creamy, and flavorful side dish that is both easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing. Its combination of sweet peas, crisp vegetables, and sharp cheese, coated in a tangy-sweet dressing, makes it a versatile addition to any meal. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or casual gatherings, it delivers freshness, color, and flavor in every bite. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
FAQs
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better if made a few hours in advance or overnight to allow flavors to meld. - Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, just blanch them briefly in boiling water and then cool before adding to the salad. - How can I make it lighter?
Replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely, finely chopped carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers add color and crunch. - How long does it keep?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Irish Pea Salad is a creamy, colorful side dish with peas, cheddar, celery, and red bell pepper in a tangy dressing. Perfect for holidays, picnics, and family dinners.
