Delicious Black-Eyed Pea Salad Recipe for Any Occasion

There’s something magical about a Black-Eyed Pea Salad that can transform any meal into a festive occasion. Imagine vibrant colors dancing together in a bowl, with each pea bursting with flavor and crunch. This dish is like a summer picnic in your mouth, where fresh veggies and zesty dressing mingle to create an unforgettable experience.

Every time I make Black-Eyed Pea Salad, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where we would gather around the table for family cookouts. The laughter, the stories, and of course, the food made it all memorable. It’s perfect for potlucks or just a casual weeknight dinner when you need a little extra brightness on your plate. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance!

Ingredients for Black-Eyed Pea Salad

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

• Canned Black-Eyed Peas: Choose low-sodium options to control salt levels; they save time as they’re already cooked.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes for sweetness; they add color and juicy bursts to each bite.

• Red Onion: A finely chopped red onion brings sharpness; soak it in cold water briefly to mellow its flavor if desired.

• Bell Pepper: Use any color bell pepper; they add crunch and sweetness along with vibrant hues to the salad.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness; feel free to use cilantro if you prefer an extra punch of flavor.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the salad; avoid bottled versions for best results.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; use quality oil for superior taste.

• Salt and Pepper: Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste; adjust according to personal preference.

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

How to Make Black-Eyed Pea Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Drain and Rinse

Start by draining the canned black-eyed peas in a colander and rinsing them under cold water. This helps remove excess sodium and gives them a fresher taste.

Step 2: Chop Your Veggies

While the peas drain, chop up your cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and parsley. Try not to get too distracted by your favorite podcast during this step—slicing fingers is not part of the recipe!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained black-eyed peas with your chopped veggies. Gently fold everything together to ensure even distribution without mashing those precious peas.

Step 4: Dress It Up

In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well blended. Pour this zesty dressing over your salad mix and toss gently until everything is coated perfectly.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Let your salad rest in the refrigerator for at least half an hour before serving. This chilling period allows all those vibrant flavors to marry beautifully—like a romantic comedy but with vegetables!

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the Black-Eyed Pea Salad onto plates or serve straight from the bowl at gatherings. It makes a fantastic side dish or light main course topped with grilled chicken or fish.

Now you’re armed with all you need to whip up this delightful Black-Eyed Pea Salad! Enjoy every flavorful bite while reminiscing about life’s little moments around the dinner table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create a fabulous Black-Eyed Pea Salad, start by soaking your peas overnight for optimal texture. Cook them until tender but firm, then let them cool while prepping your crunchy veggies and zesty dressing. This sequence keeps everything fresh and flavorful.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this salad! Swap black-eyed peas for chickpeas or add roasted corn for sweetness. Extra spices like cumin or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile, making it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Black-Eyed Pea Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For optimal freshness, avoid reheating; enjoy it cold or at room temperature to retain its crispness.

I remember the first time I made this Black-Eyed Pea Salad for a summer barbecue. My friends couldn’t stop raving about how refreshing it was, and I felt like a culinary genius that day!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Black-Eyed Pea Salad?

To make a delicious Black-Eyed Pea Salad, you will need canned black-eyed peas, diced bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, corn, and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Additionally, prepare a dressing using olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a healthy and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.

How can I customize my Black-Eyed Pea Salad?

You can easily customize your Black-Eyed Pea Salad by adding different vegetables or proteins. Consider including avocado for creaminess or diced cucumbers for extra crunch. You might also add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Adjust the dressing to suit your taste by adding spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick.

Can I make Black-Eyed Pea Salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Black-Eyed Pea Salad in advance! This dish actually tastes better after marinating in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. The flavors meld beautifully over time. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Before serving, give it a stir and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Is Black-Eyed Pea Salad healthy?

Absolutely! Black-Eyed Pea Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Black-eyed peas are rich in protein and fiber, promoting digestive health and providing lasting energy. The addition of fresh vegetables adds vitamins and minerals while keeping the dish low in calories. Enjoy this salad guilt-free as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion for Black-Eyed Pea Salad:

In conclusion, the Black-Eyed Pea Salad is a versatile and nutritious option that anyone can enjoy. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it makes for an excellent side dish or light meal. Customize it to your liking by adding various vegetables or proteins to enhance flavor and nutrition. Whether enjoyed fresh or marinated overnight, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Try making it today for a delightful addition to your table!

Print

Black-Eyed Pea Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Black-Eyed Pea Salad is a colorful, refreshing dish that combines the earthy flavors of black-eyed peas with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. Perfect for summer picnics or casual dinners, this salad offers a delightful crunch in every bite while bringing joy to your table. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s an ideal dish for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. 1. Drain and rinse the canned black-eyed peas in a colander.
2. 2. Chop cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and parsley.
3. 3. In a large bowl, combine the black-eyed peas and chopped veggies; gently fold together.
4. 4. Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until blended.
5. 5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
6. 6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg