Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most addictive Southern-style salad that'll make your summer gatherings absolutely unforgettable! This Southern Black Eyed Pea Salad is not just a recipe—it's a culinary experience that combines fresh, vibrant ingredients with a punch of zesty lime and herb-packed goodness. Whether you're looking for a quick side dish, a healthy snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: one can of black eyed peas, half a red bell pepper, a quarter cup of red onion, a quarter cup of cilantro, one lime, and salt and pepper.
- Open the can of black eyed peas. Pour the peas into a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This helps to remove excess sodium and improves the flavor.
- While the peas are draining, prepare the vegetables. Dice the half red bell pepper into small, uniform pieces. This ensures even distribution in the salad.
- Next, take the quarter cup of red onion and dice it finely. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to the salad.
- Chop the cilantro finely, making sure to include both the leaves and tender stems for maximum flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained black eyed peas, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- Cut the lime in half and squeeze the juice over the mixture in the bowl. Be careful to catch any seeds that may fall out.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount of each, then adjust according to your preference.
- Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to mash the black eyed peas.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving. This dish can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a refreshing taste.
- Serve the Southern Black Eyed Pea Salad or Salsa as a side dish, topping for tacos, or as a dip with tortilla chips. Enjoy!
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always drain and rinse canned black eyed peas to reduce sodium and enhance their natural flavor.
- Flavor Boost: Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to marinate and develop a more intense taste.
- Customization Options: - For extra heat, add diced jalapeños - Try adding diced avocado for creaminess - Experiment with different fresh herbs like parsley or mint
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy as a standalone salad, taco topping, dip with tortilla chips, or as a fresh side dish for grilled meats.Pro Tip: For the freshest flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice and chop herbs just before mixing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
