Name: Pea and Strawberry Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Elderberry syrup; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 3 tablespoons wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 cup peas; 1 cup wild strawberries (can be replaced with regular strawberries, halved or quartered); 3 cups lettuce leaves; 1/8 cup Parmesan cheese (shaved)

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There’s something magical about fresh flavors coming together, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in this delightful Pea and Strawberry Salad. The first time I made this salad, it was a warm spring day, and I wanted something light yet satisfying. As I wandered through the farmer’s market, I was captivated by the vibrant green peas and the luscious red strawberries. I couldn’t resist pairing them together, and thus this refreshing salad was born. The sweetness of the strawberries complements the earthy notes of the peas perfectly, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

What I love most about the Pea and Strawberry Salad is its versatility. It’s perfect for a picnic, a light lunch, or as a colorful side dish at dinner parties. And let me tell you, the first bite is always a moment of joy. The crunch of the fresh lettuce mingling with those juicy berries and tender peas is a combination that sings of springtime. Over the years, I’ve made this salad countless times, adjusting the dressing and toppings, but the core ingredients have remained the same.

As I prepare this salad, I relish each step, from boiling the peas to whisking together the tangy dressing. It’s therapeutic to create something so delightful from simple ingredients. So, whether you’re enjoying it on your patio or sharing it at a gathering, this salad brings a burst of happiness to the table. Give the Pea and Strawberry Salad a try, and you might just find it becomes a favorite in your home as it has in mine.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Large Pot

What’s Great About This Pea and Strawberry Salad

Freshness is Key

The first reason I absolutely adore this recipe is the freshness of the ingredients. Using seasonal peas and strawberries elevates the dish, providing a vibrant flavor that you just can’t replicate with frozen or out-of-season produce. It truly reflects the essence of spring.

Simple Preparation

Another standout feature of the Pea and Strawberry Salad is how straightforward it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking, you can whip this salad up in no time. It’s perfect for those busy days when you crave something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Ingredients

This salad also shines due to its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings or proteins, like grilled chicken or feta cheese, to make it a hearty meal. The dressing can also be adjusted to suit your taste, making it friendly to various dietary preferences.

Colorful Presentation

Let’s not forget about presentation! The combination of bright green peas and red strawberries atop a bed of crisp lettuce is visually stunning. This makes it a perfect dish for impressing guests at gatherings or special occasions.

Health Benefits

Health-conscious eaters will appreciate that this salad is loaded with nutrients. Peas provide protein and fiber, while strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. You can feel good about serving this salad to your loved ones!

Perfect for Spring

Lastly, it’s the seasonality of the Pea and Strawberry Salad that resonates with me. Spring is all about renewal and fresh beginnings, and this salad embodies that spirit perfectly. It’s a reminder of the beauty of seasonal cooking and the joy of fresh produce.

Ingredients to Make Pea and Strawberry Salad

When it comes to crafting the perfect Pea and Strawberry Salad, the quality and freshness of the ingredients are fundamental. Each component plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish. The sweet strawberries and nutritious peas come together in a delightful union, while the dressing accentuates their natural flavors.

Elderberry syrup – This syrup adds a unique sweetness and depth to the dressing.
Dijon mustard – A hint of spice from the mustard balances the sweetness of the syrup and strawberries.
Wine vinegar – Adds acidity to brighten the flavors in the salad.
Extra virgin olive oil – This good-quality oil contributes richness and a smooth texture to the vinaigrette.
Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to the dressing.
Peas – Fresh peas provide a sweet and tender bite.
Wild strawberries – These sweet gems are delightful and can be swapped with regular strawberries.
Lettuce leaves – A crisp and refreshing base for the salad.
Parmesan cheese – Shaved Parmesan adds a nutty flavor and complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Cooking Method for Pea and Strawberry Salad

Creating the Pea and Strawberry Salad is a delightful process that brings the flavors of spring to your table. Follow these steps carefully to recreate this vibrant dish. Enjoy your time in the kitchen, and remember to savor each moment as you prepare this beautiful salad.

Start by boiling a small pot of salted water over high heat. This will be used to cook the fresh peas. The water should be bubbling vigorously before moving on to the next step.
Once the water is boiling, add the peas and let them cook for about two minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a bright green color and are tender yet crisp.
Immediately transfer the cooked peas to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This is essential for keeping their vibrant color and fresh taste.
After a few minutes in the ice bath, drain the peas and set them aside. They should be cool to the touch but still have that lovely crunch.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the elderberry syrup, wine vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil. The combination of these ingredients creates a light vinaigrette that perfectly balances the flavors.
Add a pinch of salt and a dash of ground black pepper to the dressing. Taste it and adjust as necessary. You want it to be well-seasoned but not overpowering.
On a large serving plate, arrange a bed of lettuce leaves. The crispness of the lettuce provides a nice contrast to the other ingredients.
Now, layer on the blanched peas and halved or quartered wild strawberries. It’s all about creating a beautiful presentation here!
Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan cheese on top. The Parmesan adds a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the peas.
Just before serving, drizzle the elderberry vinaigrette over the salad. This ensures that everything stays fresh and vibrant!

Things Worth Knowing

Blanching peas: Blanching the peas helps maintain their bright color and crisp texture. It’s a simple yet effective technique.
Choosing strawberries: Look for strawberries that are bright red and fragrant. Avoid any that are mushy or have dark spots.
Make-ahead advice: If you want to prepare this salad in advance, make the dressing and keep it separate until you’re ready to serve.
Seasonal variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonal fruits in place of strawberries for a unique twist on the salad.

Helpful Hints

Making the perfect Pea and Strawberry Salad is all about the details. Here are some tips to enhance your experience:

Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh!
Freezing: While it’s not recommended to freeze the salad itself, you can freeze the peas before cooking them for future use.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. Serve it alongside some crusty bread for a light dinner.
Scaling up: If you’re serving a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients. This salad is easy to scale for gatherings.
Flavor enhancements: Consider adding nuts or seeds for crunch, or swap in your favorite cheese for a different flavor profile.
Serving ideas: Serve the Pea and Strawberry Salad in individual portions for a fancy touch at gatherings. It looks beautiful and makes for easy serving!

What Goes Well With This Pea and Strawberry Salad

Pairing the Pea and Strawberry Salad with the right dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas:

Grilled chicken: The lightness of the salad complements the savory flavors of grilled chicken, making it a perfect pairing for lunch or dinner.
Fish dishes: Lightly seasoned or grilled fish, such as salmon or tilapia, harmonizes beautifully with the freshness of this salad.
Picnic essentials: This salad is a fantastic choice for picnics or outdoor gatherings. It travels well and is sure to impress your guests.
Brunch gatherings: Serve it as a refreshing side at brunch alongside quiche or frittatas for a complete meal.
Seasonal celebrations: This salad is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, bringing vibrant colors and flavors to your table.
On the side: Enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats or vegetarian options for a balanced meal.

FAQ

While fresh peas are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen peas if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to blanch them quickly to maintain their bright color and crunch!

If you’re looking to add some protein, consider grilled chicken or chickpeas. They pair well with the sweet strawberries and peas and will make the salad more filling. Just toss them in before serving!

Yes! The Pea and Strawberry Salad is great for meal prep. You can prepare the dressing and chop the lettuce and strawberries ahead of time. Just mix everything together right before you’re ready to eat to keep it fresh!

Leftovers of the Pea and Strawberry Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. However, for the best quality, it’s best to enjoy it fresh!

Conclusion

The Pea and Strawberry Salad is a celebration of fresh flavors and colors that brings joy to any meal. It’s light, nutritious, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a wonderful choice for both casual and special occasions. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You’ll love the vibrant combinations and the burst of freshness it adds to your dining experience!