Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a dish that bursts with flavor and color? Look no further than the Claim Jumper Green Pea Salad! This delightful American classic combines the sweetness of fresh or frozen green peas with the creaminess of cheddar cheese and the crunch of red onions, all enveloped in a tangy dressing. Perfect as a side for any meal or a light lunch on its own, this salad is not only quick to prepare—taking just 15 minutes from start to finish—but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover why this salad is a must-try for your next gathering!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups green peas, fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup diced cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the green peas. If you are using fresh peas, shell them from their pods. If using frozen peas, measure out 2 cups and let them thaw at room temperature or quickly blanch them in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes, then drain and cool under cold running water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed or cooked green peas with 1/2 cup of diced cheddar cheese. Make sure the cheese is cut into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the salad.
- Add 1/4 cup of diced red onion to the bowl. The red onion adds a nice crunch and a mild sweetness to the salad.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by mixing together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Stir well until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Pour the dressing over the pea mixture. Gently toss all the ingredients together until the peas, cheese, and onion are well coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small pinch of each, and adjust according to your preference.
- Once everything is well combined, let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can be done in the refrigerator if you prefer a chilled salad.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss. Transfer to a serving dish or individual bowls, and enjoy your Claim Jumper Green Pea Salad!
Tips
- Fresh vs. Frozen: If you have access to fresh peas, they add a delightful sweetness and crunch. However, frozen peas are a convenient option that still offers great flavor. Just make sure to thaw them properly for the best texture.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is a classic addition, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. For an even more refreshing experience, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Customize the Dressing: If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise or add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Add Crunch: Want to amp up the texture? Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds, such as sunflower seeds or walnuts, for an added crunch.
- Perfect Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
