There is something wonderfully satisfying about a fresh and vibrant pea salad, and this Easy Pea Salad Recipe is one of those gems that quickly becomes a favorite at any gathering or weeknight meal. Bursting with the sweetness of tender peas, the creaminess of a tangy mayo-yogurt dressing, and accents of sharp cheddar and red onion, this salad hits all the right notes—bright, colorful, and so simple to pull together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a straightforward side dish, this recipe delivers both flavor and charm with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of accessible ingredients that play essential roles in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture. Each element adds its own flair, from the creamy dressing to the sharp cheddar that adds a rich, savory contrast, making the dish a delightful treat for your taste buds.
- Mayonnaise (3 tablespoons): Provides a creamy base that binds the salad together smoothly.
- Greek yogurt (3 tablespoons): Adds a tangy freshness and lightens up the mayo for a balanced dressing.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the peas.
- Cracked black pepper (½ teaspoon): Introduces a subtle spice that complements the mild ingredients.
- Frozen peas (12-ounce bag), slightly thawed: The star ingredient, sweet and popping with freshness to brighten every bite.
- Cheddar cheese (6 ounces, cubed): Adds a savory, sharp contrast in both flavor and texture.
- Red onion (â…“ cup, chopped): Brings a hint of crunch and a gentle bite of sweetness.
- Hard-boiled egg (1, diced, optional): Adds richness and a bit of extra protein, perfect for those wanting a heartier salad.
How to Make Easy Pea Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Begin by combining the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, salt, and cracked black pepper in a small bowl. Stir everything together until the dressing is smooth and evenly blended. This dressing is both creamy and tangy, creating a perfect coating for the peas and other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the slightly thawed peas, cubed cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and diced hard-boiled egg if you’re using it. This mix brings a wonderful variety of textures and flavors, from soft to crunchy and mild to sharp.
Step 3: Combine Dressing and Salad
Spoon the prepared dressing over the pea mixture and gently stir until every piece is lightly coated. Be careful not to mash the peas or cheese – you want to maintain that appealing contrast of textures.
Step 4: Chill and Adjust Seasoning
Refrigerate the salad until it’s nicely chilled before serving. Just before you dish it out, taste and season with additional salt and pepper if necessary. This final step ensures your salad is perfectly seasoned and ready to impress.
How to Serve Easy Pea Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill adds a lovely burst of color and freshness over the top. Toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds can add a delightful crunch if you want to create more textural interest. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and flavor instantly.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a juicy burger for a complete meal. It also works as a light and refreshing counterpoint alongside heavier dishes like barbecued ribs or roasted meats. Its brightness helps balance richer flavors and keeps the palate refreshed.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this pea salad in hollowed-out cherry tomatoes or inside a crisp lettuce cup for a fun appetizer twist. Alternatively, layering it on crostini with a bit of smoked salmon can turn it into a stunning party snack. The vibrant green hues also make it perfect for colorful picnic spreads or buffet tables.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because this salad relies on fresh ingredients and a creamy dressing, it’s best kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftovers should stay delicious for up to 2 days. Give the salad a gentle stir before serving to reincorporate any dressing that may have settled at the bottom.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad since peas and the mayo-yogurt dressing lose their texture and flavor after thawing. For the best experience, enjoy this salad fresh or within a couple of days of making it.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary and not ideal. Simply keep it chilled until ready to serve for the best crisp and creamy experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas work wonderfully and add a bright, sweet crunch. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water to soften before tossing into the salad.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with vegan alternatives, and either omit the cheddar and egg or use plant-based versions to keep it creamy and satisfying.
How long should I thaw the frozen peas?
Leaving the peas out at room temperature for about 15 minutes is usually enough to thaw them slightly while keeping their firm texture intact.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even a handful of fresh herbs work beautifully to add extra flavor and color to this easy salad.
What is the best way to dice a hard-boiled egg?
Peeling the egg, then slicing it lengthwise, followed by a crosswise cut, creates perfectly small, even pieces that mix well without overpowering the salad.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pea Salad Recipe is an absolute delight—simple, colorful, and loaded with fresh flavors that make every bite enjoyable. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck or serving it as a refreshing side, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep close by. Give it a try and enjoy just how effortlessly delicious healthy eating can be!
Print
Easy Pea Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Pea Salad is a fresh, creamy side dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or quick family meals. Made with a tangy dressing of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, this salad combines sweet peas, sharp cheddar, crunchy red onion, and optional diced hard-boiled egg for added protein and texture. It’s a no-cook, refrigerator-chilled dish that’s both simple to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
Salad
- 12 ounce bag of frozen peas, slightly thawed
- 6 ounces cheddar cheese, cubed
- â…“ cup chopped red onion
- 1 hard-boiled egg, diced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended, forming a creamy dressing base for the salad.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the slightly thawed frozen peas, cubed cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and diced hard-boiled egg if using. Gently mix these ingredients to distribute them evenly.
- Add the Dressing: Spoon the prepared dressing over the pea mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat all the salad components evenly with the creamy dressing.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill before serving.
- Season to Taste: Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning by adding additional salt or cracked black pepper if needed to suit your preference.
Notes
- Use fresh peas if available, but frozen peas work well when slightly thawed.
- The hard-boiled egg is optional but adds extra protein and richness.
- For a tangier dressing, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives and omit the cheese and egg.
