Amazing Black-Eyed Pea Salad Recipe: A Fresh & Flavorful Side Dish

Introduction:

Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish? This Black-Eyed Pea Salad is the perfect addition to any meal! Packed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, this recipe is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a BBQ, or just need a refreshing snack, this vibrant salad is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of black-eyed peas, making it both tasty and wholesome!

Table of Contents

History or Background:

Black-eyed peas have a long and rich history, particularly in Southern and African American cuisine. Traditionally, they are believed to bring good luck when eaten on New Year’s Day, symbolizing prosperity and wealth. This hearty legume has been a staple in the American South for centuries, often featured in dishes like Hoppin’ John. Over time, black-eyed peas have expanded beyond these traditional recipes, finding their way into salads, soups, and stews, celebrated for their versatility, nutrition, and unique flavor.

Why You’ll Love Black-Eyed Pea Salad:

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
2. Healthy & Nutritious: Black-eyed peas are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making this salad a great option for those looking to eat healthier.
3. Customizable: You can add or swap ingredients based on your preferences, making it versatile for different tastes.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a casual BBQ or preparing a nutritious meal prep, this salad fits any occasion.
5. Refreshingly Light: The combination of fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing keeps this dish light yet satisfying, making it a great side dish for any meal.

Ingredients for Black-Eyed Pea Salad:

• 2 (15 ounce) cans of black-eyed peas, drained
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced (about 1/2 medium onion)
• 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced (about 1/2 pepper)
• 2 tablespoons green onion, chopped (about 3 green onions)
• 1/3 cup cilantro leaves, rough chopped
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 1/4 cup rice wine or white wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

How to Make Black-Eyed Pea Salad:

1. Drain the Peas: Begin by draining the black-eyed peas from their cans. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess sodium.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the red onion and yellow bell pepper. Chop the green onions and rough chop the cilantro leaves.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the drained black-eyed peas, red onion, yellow bell pepper, green onion, and cilantro.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice wine vinegar, canola oil, brown sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined.
5. Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the pea and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated. You can serve it immediately, or refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.

Pro Tips:

1. Let it Rest: While you can serve this Black-Eyed Pea Salad right away, letting it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour helps the flavors meld together, making it even tastier.
2. Add a Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even feta cheese to turn this salad into a full meal.
3. Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the vinegar or sugar amount to suit your taste. If you prefer a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar slightly.

Serving Ideas or Usage Tips:

• As a Side Dish: This Black-Eyed Pea Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, barbecue, or roasted vegetables. It’s the perfect accompaniment for any summer meal or family dinner.
• Meal Prep: Pack it for a healthy lunch option that lasts a few days. It’s great for preparing in advance, as the flavors develop over time.
• Taco Filling: Use it as a filling for tacos or wraps. The crunchy texture and tangy dressing make it a delicious alternative to traditional fillings.
• Garnish for Soups: Top off your favorite soups or stews with a spoonful of this salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage Advice or Shelf Life Information:

Store leftover Black-Eyed Pea Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days. The salad may become a little softer over time as the dressing continues to soak into the peas, but the flavors will still be delicious. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the vegetables and peas may change.

You can find on Facebook & Pinterest

FAQs Section:

How long can you keep black-eyed peas in the refrigerator?
Cooked or prepared black-eyed peas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days, making this salad a great option for meal prep.

How long does it take for black-eyed peas to get soft?
If you’re cooking dried black-eyed peas, they typically take about 1 hour to become tender after being soaked overnight. Canned black-eyed peas are already cooked and only need to be drained and rinsed before use.

What are the benefits of black-eyed peas?
Black-eyed peas are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, helping with digestion, heart health, and maintaining steady blood sugar levels.

you may also like

For another easy and flavorful side dish, check out our recipe for Incredible Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe: A Cheesy, Bacon-Loaded Delight.

Love simple snacks? Try our Amazing Homemade Date Snickers Bar (No-Bake + Vegan Treat!) for a healthy yet indulgent treat.

Looking for more delicious seasoning options? Learn how to make your own Incredible Magic Lemon Pie: A Simple and Delicious Dessert to elevate your cooking!

Conclusion:

This Black-Eyed Pea Salad is a simple, yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and hearty black-eyed peas, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for healthy, delicious meals. Whether served as a side dish, main course, or snack, it’s easy to prepare and packed with nutritional benefits. Give it a try today and enjoy the refreshing taste!

Print

You can find on Facebook & Pinterest