Snow pea salad – it’s like spring on a plate. This vibrant salad is a delightful mix of crunchy, sweet, and savory flavors, perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a vibrant addition to potlucks and picnics. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to your liking with a variety of additional ingredients. Today, I’ll guide you through a simple yet delicious snow pea salad recipe that will have you craving more.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh snow peas, strings removed
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
Tools of the Trade:
- A large bowl for mixing
- A small bowl for whisking the dressing
- A sharp knife for chopping
- A salad spinner (optional)
Let’s Get Started:
Step 1: Prep the Snow Peas:
- Rinse the snow peas under cold water and pat them dry.
- Remove the strings from each snow pea by snapping off the stem end and pulling down along the pod’s length.
Step 2: Create the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- In the small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad:
- In the large bowl, combine the snow peas, red onion, mint, and parsley.
- Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Add the feta cheese, if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for the Best Snow Pea Salad:
- Freshness is Key: Use the freshest snow peas you can find for optimal crunch and flavor.
- Blanching for Brightness: If desired, blanch the snow peas for 1 minute in boiling water, then immediately shock in ice water to preserve their vibrant green color. This step is optional but recommended.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables like sliced cucumbers or bell peppers.
Presentation Matters:
- Arrange the salad on a platter or individual plates.
- For an elegant touch, garnish with a few extra mint leaves and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Snow Pea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Nutritional Benefits:
This snow pea salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Snow peas are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
FAQs:
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the salad components and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds would make delicious alternatives.
A Final Word:
This snow pea salad recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and easy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor combinations and make this recipe your own.
Ingredients for Snow Pea Salad
Enjoy your culinary adventure and happy salad making! We’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more salad inspiration, check out our recipe for Malakoff, a unique and flavorful salad that’s sure to impress.
