Looking for a quick and vibrant dish that will elevate your meal to new heights? Look no further than this Warm Pea and Chilli Salad! Bursting with fresh flavors and a delightful kick from the red chilli, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing addition to your table. With just 15 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a light side for any dinner. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet sophisticated recipe that will leave them craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh peas
- 1 red chilli, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Fill a medium-sized saucepan with water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the peas' natural flavor.
- Add the fresh peas to the boiling water and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender but still retain a slight crispness. Be careful not to overcook them.
- While the peas are cooking, finely chop the red chilli, removing the seeds if you prefer a milder heat level. Set aside.
- Once the peas are cooked, drain them immediately in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color and texture.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the warm peas, finely chopped red chilli, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently toss to ensure even coating and distribution of ingredients.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
- Transfer the warm pea and chilli salad to a serving dish. Serve immediately while the peas are still warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Peas: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh peas rather than frozen. Look for bright green pods that feel firm to the touch.
- Perfectly Cooked Peas: Keep an eye on the cooking time! Aim for 3-4 minutes in boiling water to ensure your peas are tender yet still crisp. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
- Adjust the Heat: If you're sensitive to spice, be sure to remove the seeds from the red chilli. You can also substitute with a milder pepper for a gentler flavor.
- Chill the Ingredients: If you want to serve this salad cold, prepare the peas ahead of time and let them cool in the refrigerator. Just mix in the other ingredients right before serving.
- Add Extra Flavor: Experiment with additional herbs like mint or parsley for a fresh twist, or consider adding crumbled feta cheese for a creamy contrast.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served as a refreshing light lunch on its own.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning! A little extra lemon juice or a pinch more salt can make all the difference in elevating the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
