If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant colors and fresh flavors, look no further than this Refreshing Spring Pea and Mint Salad Recipe. It’s a delightful harmony of sweet peas, fragrant mint, zesty lemon, and creamy feta, all coming together for a salad that’s as light and bright as a spring morning. Perfect for lunch, a side, or even a picnic treat, this salad captures the essence of the season with each crisp, refreshing bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this salad just right is all about using simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role. From the sweetness of the peas to the crunch of the toasted nuts, every component adds a distinct texture or flavor, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.
- 1 cup fresh sweet peas (or frozen): The star of the dish providing vibrant green color and natural sweetness.
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped: Adds a refreshing, cool herbal note that lifts the salad.
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: A smooth, fruity base that ties all the flavors together.
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese): Adds creaminess and a salty tang.
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (or chopped walnuts/almonds): For a satisfying crunch and nutty warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the layers of flavor.
How to Make Refreshing Spring Pea and Mint Salad Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Peas
Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the fresh peas and let them cook for about 3 minutes until they turn tender but still retain that beautiful bright green color. Drain them immediately and shock them in cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their crispness.
Step 2: Combine Peas with Mint and Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cooled peas with the chopped mint leaves, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. This combination infuses the peas with fresh, zesty flavors and herbaceous notes — the essence of spring captured in a bowl.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Nuts
Fold in the crumbled feta cheese along with the toasted pine nuts carefully. The cheese adds a creamy, savory touch while the nuts contribute a toasty crunch, making each bite a delightful textural contrast without overpowering the delicate peas.
Step 4: Chill or Serve Immediately
While you can serve this salad right away to enjoy it fresh and vibrant, letting it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s flexible and always delicious either way.
How to Serve Refreshing Spring Pea and Mint Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra toasted pine nuts or a few whole mint leaves on top adds visual appeal and an extra hint of flavor that invites you in. A light drizzle of olive oil or a quick zest of lemon peel can brighten it up even more.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fresh seafood, or even alongside a platter of assorted cheeses and crusty bread. It’s a fresh complement to hearty mains, perfect for spring and summer gatherings alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in elegant glass bowls or mason jars for a charming presentation at your next picnic or dinner party. Layering the salad with additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes or radishes can add pops of color and exciting new flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days, but for best flavor and texture, enjoy it as soon as possible before the peas soften too much.
Freezing
Because of its fresh herbs and crisp peas, this salad is not suitable for freezing as it can lose its vibrant texture and become watery once thawed.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, as it will diminish the fresh flavors and textures that make this dish so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas for this salad?
Absolutely! Frozen peas work wonderfully in this recipe; just make sure to blanch them and cool them properly to maintain that fresh green color and crispness.
What if I don’t have pine nuts?
No worries! You can substitute toasted walnuts or almonds, which bring a lovely crunch and a slightly different nutty flavor to the salad.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative, and you’ll have a fresh, plant-based version of the Refreshing Spring Pea and Mint Salad Recipe.
How long can I prepare this salad before serving?
You can prepare it up to a few hours in advance and keep it chilled. This allows the flavors to deepen wonderfully without compromising texture.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It makes a great light meal or side that’s quick to throw together, making your weeknight meals easier and more vibrant.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to make this Refreshing Spring Pea and Mint Salad Recipe as I am sharing it with you. It’s one of those magical dishes that feels light but satisfying, simple but special, and perfect for celebrating all the fresh flavors of spring. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Refreshing Spring Pea and Mint Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and refreshing spring pea and mint salad featuring tender peas, fresh mint, tangy lemon juice, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy toasted pine nuts, perfect as a healthy appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh sweet peas (or frozen)
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (or chopped walnuts/almonds)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Blanch the peas: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the peas. Cook for 3 minutes until they become tender but maintain a bright green color. Drain the peas and immediately transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
- Combine salad base: In a large bowl, mix the cooled peas with chopped fresh mint leaves, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. Toss gently to evenly coat the peas without crushing them.
- Add cheese and nuts: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts over the salad. Mix carefully to incorporate these ingredients while preserving the texture of the peas.
- Serve or chill: Enjoy the salad right away for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate it for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving.
Notes
- Frozen peas can be used if fresh peas are unavailable; just ensure they are thawed before blanching.
- Substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds based on preference or availability.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, especially if the cheese is salty.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.
