English Pea Salad With Canned Peas Recipe : Quick Creamy Southern Side

English Pea Salad with Canned Peas Recipe : Quick Creamy Southern Side offers a refreshing, simple, and satisfying dish, perfect as a side or light meal.

This salad features tender canned peas enveloped in a creamy, tangy dressing. Enhanced with crisp vegetables and a hint of sweetness, it delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Each spoonful offers a cool, comforting sensation. The sweetness of the peas is beautifully balanced by the acidity of the dressing, while the crunchy vegetables provide a welcome textural contrast. The aroma is subtly fresh, hinting at the garden-fresh ingredients despite the convenience of canned peas.

Pea salad holds a special place in Southern cuisine, often gracing potlucks, picnics, and holiday tables. Its enduring popularity stems from its simplicity, affordability, and undeniable deliciousness. It evokes a sense of nostalgia for home-cooked meals and shared gatherings.

This recipe is particularly appealing due to its speed and ease of preparation. Using canned peas streamlines the process, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers. The ingredients are readily available, and the recipe can be easily customized to suit individual preferences.

Variations abound, with some recipes incorporating hard-boiled eggs, bacon, or cheese for added richness and flavor. Popular pairings include grilled meats, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. Regional twists may involve different types of vinegar or the addition of local herbs.

Ready to experience the delightful simplicity of this Southern classic? Scroll down to discover the step-by-step instructions for creating this quick and creamy pea salad.

Recipe Metadata

• Categories: 15 Minute Meals, Side Dishes, Spring Recipes, Summer Recipes
• Courses: Side Dishes, Lunch
• Cuisines: American, Southern
• Keywords: English Pea Salad, Canned Peas, Quick and Easy, Creamy, Southern Side Dish, Potluck, Picnic

Estimated Cost: $8.00 total

Preparation Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Recipe Yield: Serves 6 people

Ingredients

• 2 (15-ounce) cans sweet peas, drained
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Step 1: Combine Peas and Vegetables: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the drained sweet peas, chopped red onion, and chopped celery. Ensure the vegetables are evenly distributed among the peas.
• Step 2: Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
• Step 3: Combine Dressing and Pea Mixture: Pour the prepared dressing over the pea and vegetable mixture. Gently fold the dressing into the peas and vegetables until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the peas.
• Step 4: Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step enhances the overall taste of the salad. Serve chilled as a side dish or light lunch.

For a tangier flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing. Bacon bits or shredded cheddar cheese can also be added for extra flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutritional values per serving:

Essential Cooking Equipment

• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board
• Can opener
• Plastic wrap or airtight container

Variations

English Pea Salad lends itself to numerous adaptations:

• Ingredient Swaps: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat content. Diced cheddar cheese or crumbled feta can be added for a richer flavor. Fresh dill or mint can replace or complement the sweet pickle relish for a fresher taste.
• Regional Twists: A Southern variation might include crispy fried bacon bits. A Midwestern version could incorporate shredded carrots and sunflower seeds. A Southwestern influence could be achieved by adding a pinch of chili powder and a squeeze of lime juice.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream alternatives. To lower the sugar content, use a sugar substitute or omit the sugar entirely, adjusting the vinegar to taste. Consider adding protein sources such as chopped hard-boiled eggs for a more substantial salad.

Serving Suggestions

This pea salad is highly versatile. It is ideally served chilled as a side dish accompanying grilled chicken, fish, or pork. It also functions well as a light lunch option, either on its own or served with crackers or bread. Consider incorporating it into a buffet spread or packing it for picnics and potlucks. Small servings can be offered as an appetizer.

Storage Tips

To maintain freshness, English Pea Salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will remain fresh for approximately 3-4 days. Note that the dressing may become slightly thinner over time. Stir gently before serving. Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the peas and dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can frozen peas be used instead of canned?
  Answer: While canned peas are preferred for their soft texture, frozen peas can be used. Blanch them briefly in boiling water, then immediately cool in an ice bath before draining thoroughly.
• Question 2: Can the salad be made ahead of time?
  Answer: Yes, preparing the salad a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld. However, avoid making it more than a day ahead, as the vegetables may become soggy.
• Question 3: What can be used in place of sweet pickle relish?
  Answer: If sweet pickle relish is unavailable, finely chopped dill pickles with a pinch of sugar can be substituted.
• Question 4: The salad is too tangy, how can I fix it?
  Answer: Adding a touch more sugar or a small amount of mayonnaise can help balance the tartness.

Summary & Final Thoughts

This English Pea Salad recipe brings together the convenience of canned peas with the classic, comforting flavors of the South, offering a quick and satisfying side dish you can whip up in minutes. Its a creamy, flavorful, and versatile addition to any meal.

Whether you’re looking to customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients, adjust the sweetness to your liking, or serve it alongside grilled meats or sandwiches, this salad is easily adaptable to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add-ins!

So, why not give this recipe a try? Its a simple, delicious way to bring a touch of Southern charm to your table. Wed love to hear how yours turns out, and any personal twists you might add. Share your experiences and photos your insights can help other home cooks!

Happy cooking! Let us know how yours turns out!