Irish Pea Salad
Irish Pea Salad is a delightful, refreshing, and colorful dish that brings a touch of Ireland to your table. It’s a wonderful combination of tender peas, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing that makes it comforting and satisfying.
Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a simple family dinner, this salad offers a taste of tradition and is loved by kids and adults alike. It’s so easy to throw together, yet it never fails to impress!
This Irish Pea Salad goes wonderfully well with a variety of mains. Think grilled chicken, baked ham, or even a hearty meatloaf. Pair it with some homemade dinner rolls or a slice of Irish soda bread to soak up the creamy dressing.
For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a cup of soup or a fresh green salad.
Servings
6–8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup diced cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, diced cheddar cheese, chopped celery, chopped red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the pea and vegetable mixture, gently tossing to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Give the salad a gentle stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Variations & Tips
For those who prefer a milder flavor, substitute sliced green onions for the red onion. They provide a gentler onion taste while still adding freshness and color.
If you have a picky eater in the family, consider adding diced ham or crispy bacon bits for extra protein and savory flavor. These additions can help turn the salad into a more filling side dish.
You can also swap the cheddar cheese for a milder option such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you prefer a less sharp flavor.
For a healthier twist, replace the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess while boosting the protein content of the salad.
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives make a wonderful addition and add a bright, garden-fresh flavor that complements the sweet peas beautifully.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly during storage.