Name: Lucky Black Eyed Pea Salad with Lemon Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) black eyed peas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Welcome to a fresh, zesty, and satisfying take on a salad that holds a place of honor in Southern tradition. The Lucky Black Eyed Pea Salad with Lemon Dressing is a perfect combination of nutritious black-eyed peas with ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes, crispy cucumbers, and fragrant herbs. Tossed in a tangy lemon and olive oil dressing, this salad is both refreshing and fulfilling, making it an ideal side dish for any meal or a wholesome option for lunch on its own. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, this salad not only nourishes the body, but it also elevates any dining experience. You can whip it up in just 10 minutes, making it a great choice for those busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Moreover, black-eyed peas are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, ensuring you are not only satisfying your hunger but also nourishing your body in a delicious way. The quick preparation and minimal ingredients mean you can enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal without hours in the kitchen. So, let’s dive into this delightful salad and see why it’s a must-try in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Lucky Black Eyed Pea Salad

Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, perfect for those busy days.
Nutritious: Packed with black-eyed peas, which contain protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Fresh Ingredients: A combination of vibrant veggies creates a refreshing flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal, and easily customize it to suit your preferences.
Ideal for Meal Prep: Flavor enhances if left to sit, making it a wonderful option for meal-prepped lunches.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect Lucky Black Eyed Pea Salad, start by prepping your kitchen and workspace for a seamless cooking experience. First, gather all the ingredients to ensure everything is within reach. Rinse and drain your canned black-eyed peas to eliminate excess sodium, and cut your cherry tomatoes in half for even distribution throughout the salad. Dice the cucumber and finely chop the red onion and parsley to maximize the freshness and flavor of each ingredient.

It’s helpful to have a large mixing bowl for tossing your salad and a separate smaller bowl for whisking your dressing. A whisk will make mixing the lemon dressing effortless, so have it ready. If you opt for feta cheese, prepare it in advance too. Having your ingredients prepped will streamline your process, making it easy to enjoy this flavor-packed dish!

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) black eyed peas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Fresh Ingredients

Begin by gathering a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, take your drained and rinsed black-eyed peas and add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped parsley. If you’re seeking that additional layer of creaminess, sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese at this stage. Each ingredient contributes its unique texture and flavor, creating a harmonious blend that makes this salad stand out.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

Next, transition to a smaller bowl to prepare the lemon dressing. Start by squeezing the juice of one fresh lemon into the bowl, ensuring to remove any seeds. Add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk everything together vigorously until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. This dressing is what ties all the ingredients together, adding brightness and a hint of zest.

Step 3: Toss and Marinate

Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. With gentle care, toss the salad to ensure every component is evenly coated with that tangy lemon dressing. This not only enhances flavor but also allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. For the best results, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature before serving. This marinating time allows the flavors to blend and creates a more cohesive dish. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and watch as it disappears from the table!

Variations

Protein: Add diced grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Tofu can also be a great vegetarian alternative.
Vegetables: Mix in bell peppers, avocado, or corn for additional flavors and colors.
Spices: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

Using fresh black-eyed peas instead of canned can elevate this salad, though it requires more preparation time.
Feel free to adjust the lemon juice and olive oil ratio to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
Serve it over a bed of mixed greens for an added crunch and nutrition.

Tips

Make the salad a few hours in advance to enhance the flavors even more.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 180
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 360mg

FAQs

Can I use dried black-eyed peas?

Yes, you can use dried black-eyed peas. Just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand according to package instructions.

What if I don’t like feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your preference, you can leave it out or replace it with a different cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella.

How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?

This salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese and ensure that all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

The Lucky Black Eyed Pea Salad with Lemon Dressing presents a fresh, vibrant, and nutritious option for anyone looking to elevate their dining experience. Its combination of delicious flavors and textures makes it a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side or as a light meal, it promises to satisfy and delight your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to share your creations or any variations you come up with in the comments below. We encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of a refreshing and healthy salad that is simple yet profound in flavor. Happy cooking!