Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe

A refreshing and hearty Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe comes alive with vibrant textures and a burst of flavors that beckon to be shared around any table. This dish is especially delightful during summer gatherings or as a light weeknight dinner, showcasing the nutty richness of black-eyed peas paired beautifully with juicy cherry tomatoes and the crispness of cucumber. I remember making this salad with my grandmother on sun-drenched afternoons, her laughter mingling with the aromas of fresh vegetables being chopped, filling the kitchen with a sense of warmth and comfort. Each bite is a celebration of community and love that binds us together through food. You’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is.

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This Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe will invigorate your spirit while tantalizing your taste buds with every forkful.

Why Make This Recipe

This Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe should find a place in your American kitchen for its bright, zesty flavor that dances across your palate. Packed with fiber and plant-based protein, each serving is a delicious way to nourish both body and soul. The toasted notes of balsamic vinegar and lemon juice create a tangy background that enhances every vegetable’s unique profile, making this salad a joy to eat.

Imagine bright hues of red, green, and yellow sitting invitingly on your holiday table, stirring feelings of nostalgia and togetherness. Whether served as a vibrant side dish or a standalone meal with tortilla chips, each mouthful will remind you of casual family barbecues where laughter fills the air and stories are shared over heaping plates. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to all year long.

How to Make Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe

To begin your culinary adventure, gather all your colorful ingredients including two cans of black eyed peas drained and rinsed, two cups of sliced cherry tomatoes, and an English cucumber that you will cut into small pieces. As you prepare, let the aromas of fresh vegetables fill your kitchen and envelop you in a comforting embrace.

In a small bowl, combine three tablespoons of balsamic vinegar with two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, a clove of garlic peeled and minced, one teaspoon of kosher salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they meld into a harmonious blend. Slowly add a quarter cup of extra virgin olive oil, whisking continuously until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Once your dressing is ready, take a large bowl and gently place the black eyed peas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, sliced celery rib, and a large red bell pepper cut into bite-sized pieces. Tumble in one cup of corn, whether fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen, along with half a cup of finely diced red onion. Don’t forget to add half a cup of freshly chopped Italian parsley or cilantro for an aromatic finish. Drizzle your delicious homemade dressing over the salad and toss everything together carefully, allowing the flavors to mingle and embrace each other.

Taste for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed. If you can, let the salad rest for at least four hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deepen and marry further. You may serve this salad on its own or with tortilla chips as a dip, creating a light, delightful feast that leaves everyone feeling satisfied.

Now that your kitchen smells amazing, let’s look at what you’ll need. You will need three tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, one clove of garlic peeled and minced, one teaspoon of kosher salt, half a teaspoon of black pepper, one quarter cup of extra virgin olive oil, two cans of black eyed peas drained and rinsed, two cups of sliced cherry tomatoes, one medium-sized English cucumber cut into small pieces, one celery rib sliced thinly, one large red bell pepper, one cup of corn whether fresh, canned or thawed from frozen, half a cup of finely diced red onion, and half a cup of chopped Italian parsley or cilantro. Freshness is key here, but if you need to make substitutions based on what you have on hand, feel free to get creative.

Start by gathering all the fresh ingredients on your kitchen counter.
Next, drain and rinse two cans of black eyed peas under cold water until clean.
Cut two cups of cherry tomatoes in half, revealing their vibrant red flesh.

Chop one medium English cucumber into small, refreshing pieces.
Slice one celery rib thinly to add a satisfying crunch to your salad.
Dice one large red bell pepper into small pieces for a sweet flavor.
Prepare one cup of corn, which can be fresh, canned, or frozen.

Finely dice half a cup of red onion, releasing its sharp aroma.
In a separate bowl, whisk three tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, one clove of minced garlic, one teaspoon of kosher salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper together until well combined.
Slowly drizzle in one quarter cup of extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until your dressing is smooth and emulsified.

Troubleshooting Tip

If your salad seems too dry after a while, don’t hesitate to add a little extra olive oil or a splash of lemon juice to revive those invigorating flavors. A few additional herbs can also breathe new life into the dish, making it just the way you like it.

Why This Recipe Works (The Science)

This Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe thrives on the balance of fresh ingredients integrating effortlessly with a zingy vinaigrette. The black-eyed peas serve as an excellent source of protein and fiber, promoting a feeling of fullness that keeps you satisfied longer. The lemon juice helps tenderize the vegetables while adding a bright acidity that perfectly complements the beans’ creamy texture.

Science Tip:

The vinegar and lemon juice not only add flavor but also help to preserve the salad’s delightful crunch, ensuring each bite remains fresh and vibrant.

Expert Insight:

Letting the salad rest allows the ingredients to release their natural juices, which makes for a more flavorful and harmonious dish. The resting period develops a subtle depth, transforming ordinary components into something extraordinary.

When it comes to nutrition, each serving packs a dose of fiber to support digestive health, helping you feel your best.

How to Serve Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe

Imagine serving this vibrant Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe at your next picnic gathering under a warm sun where friends are laughing and sharing stories. Pair it with grilled chicken or salmon to create a heartwarming dinner that feels like a hug from the inside. Alternatively, serve it alongside warm, freshly baked cornbread, the aroma of sweetness mingling effortlessly with the salad’s tangy flavor.

For those cool evenings spent with loved ones, pile this salad onto taco shells or use it as a topping for baked potatoes, creating flavorful bites that make every gathering memorable. The versatility of this dish makes it a winning addition to any occasion.

How to Store Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe

Storing your Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe is easy, and doing it right ensures the dish remains inviting and flavorful. If stored in an airtight container, it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to five days. As it sits, the flavors continue to deepen overnight, offering a new taste experience the following day.

If you wish to keep the salad longer, consider freezing the black-eyed peas and corn before preparing. Once assembled, it is best enjoyed fresh, as the vegetables can lose their delightful crunch if frozen.

Tips to Make Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe

For an extra pop of flavor in your Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe, consider toasting the black-eyed peas on the stovetop before adding them to the mix. Swapping out the parsley for fresh basil or dill can introduce an aromatic twist that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

To enhance the salad’s color and texture, mix in assorted vegetables such as shredded carrots or diced avocados. Experimenting with different vinegars will showcase the versatility of your dressing; apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can provide a different flavor profile.

Adjust spices according to your taste, allowing you to personalize the dish further. Save this recipe for your next cozy weekend dinner, where bowls filled with laughter and nourishment will flow freely.

Variations and Substitutions

To create a spicy Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce for an exciting kick. If you’re leaning towards a more seasonal approach, include roasted butternut squash alongside the cherry tomatoes for a hug of warmth and sweetness.

For a heartier version, fold in cubed avocado or grilled zucchini for that satisfying element. Opting for a crunchy texture? Substitute the celery with finely diced bell peppers or use crunchy radishes for an extra zing that will elevate your salad.

FAQs

Can I make this Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite more delicious the following day.

What can I serve with Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tortilla chips, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.

How long does Black Eyed Pea Salad last in the fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, it can last up to five days in the refrigerator, with flavors becoming more vibrant as it sits.

Can I add extra ingredients to this Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to be adventurous and add ingredients like diced avocado, mixed bell peppers, or roasted corn to suit your preferences.

Does this salad have any health benefits?

Yes! The black-eyed peas are rich in fiber that aids digestion and help maintain a healthy heart.

Nutritional Information

Calories: two hundred
Protein: ten grams
Carbs: thirty-three grams
Fat: eight grams
Fiber: eight grams
Vitamin: A

Rich in fiber and naturally low in fat, this dish is a delightful addition to any table.

Conclusion

The Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe captures the essence of nourishment and togetherness, making it a timeless addition to any gathering. Each bite is a reminder of the joy found in good company and fresh ingredients. Allow it to bring bright colors and delightful flavors to your table, drawing friends and family closer together. Sip slowly, breathe deeply, and let every glass remind you that wellness can be simple.

Olivia Bennett