Name: Spring Pea and Mint Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh peas (or 1 cup frozen peas); 1 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Print Recipe

Spring Pea and Mint Salad is like a breath of fresh air on a warm day. Picture this: vibrant green peas, crisp mint leaves, and a zesty lemon basil salmon rolls asparagus and lemon basil rolls This salad is not just food; it’s a celebration of spring, bursting with flavors and colors that make you want to wear sunglasses indoors.

I remember the first time I made this salad for a picnic. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, and my friends devoured it faster than I could say “Seconds, anyone?” It’s the perfect dish for spring gatherings or simply to brighten up your dinner table after a long winter.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delicious Spring Pea and Mint Salad takes less than 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal weekday meal or side dish
Its bright flavors are refreshing and perfect for outdoor dining
With its stunning green color, this salad adds visual appeal to any plate
Versatile enough to serve with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own

I once brought this salad to a family reunion, and my cousin declared it the “green gem” of the feast. Who knew peas could steal the show?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Peas: Use sweet green peas for the best flavor; frozen peas work too if fresh aren’t available.
Fresh Mint Leaves: Opt for vibrant green mint leaves, as they add a refreshing kick that’s vital for this recipe. whipped pink lemonade.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings zing; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness; it enhances all flavors beautifully.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning that elevates the taste; adjust according to your preference.
Feta Cheese (optional): Crumbled feta adds creaminess; skip if you’re going dairy-free. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. white chocolate strawberry truffles.

Let’s Make it Together

Start by preparing your ingredients. Gather all your fresh peas and mint leaves. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water. This step ensures they are clean and ready for action.

Blanch those peas: In a saucepan, bring water to a rolling boil. Add in your fresh peas and blanch them for about 2 minutes until they turn bright green. Drain them immediately and plunge them into ice water. This keeps their vibrant color intact.

Mince the mint: While the peas cool down, take your fresh mint leaves and finely chop them. Feel free to channel your inner chef here let’s make those little guys as small as possible without getting too carried away!

Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. The dressing should be tangy yet smooth, a perfect balance to coat those lovely peas.

Toss it all together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled peas with minced mint. Drizzle your dressing over the top and give it a gentle toss until everything is evenly coated.

Add feta (if using): Crumble feta cheese over the salad just before serving. It adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the freshness of the peas and mint beautifully.

Now that you’ve created this masterpiece of springtime delight, serve it up! This Spring Pea and Mint Salad can stand alone or accompany any main dish you desire grilled chicken or fish works wonders alongside this fresh creation. For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.

Enjoy every bite while basking in compliments from family and friends who will undoubtedly ask for seconds!

You Must Know

This vibrant, fresh Spring Pea and Mint Salad not only delights with its flavors but also adds a pop of color to any meal
The combination of sweet peas and refreshing mint creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for spring gatherings

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by blanching the peas in boiling water for just two minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath. This keeps their vibrant green color and sweet flavor intact while ensuring they stay crisp!

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences; add crumbled feta for creaminess or toss in nuts for crunch. Experimentation is key to making this salad uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. Avoid reheating, as it may lose its delightful crispness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh peas for the sweetest flavor; frozen ones work but lack that garden fresh taste
Always use freshly chopped mint dried doesn’t capture the same essence
Don’t forget a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the salad!

Sharing this Spring Pea and Mint Salad at a family picnic turned into a delightful memory when my cousin declared it “the best thing ever!” Who knew a salad could spark such enthusiasm?

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for mint in this salad?

Basil or parsley can be great alternatives if you’re not a fan of mint.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh, but you can prep ingredients a few hours in advance.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but add dressing right before serving to keep it crisp and fresh!