Introduction
This vibrant and nutritious black-eyed pea salad is perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a light side dish. Packed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, it’s not only healthy but also incredibly easy to prepare. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures that this salad brings to your table.
Ingredients
2 cans (15.5 ounces each) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
1 container cherry tomatoes, quartered
½ red onion, diced
1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, diced
3 green onions, chopped
⅓ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
¼ cup rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons avocado oil
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1-2 hours (for chilling)
Yield: 6 servings
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, yellow and red bell peppers, jalapeño, green onions, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and rice wine vinegar until the sugar dissolves. Whisk in the avocado oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the black-eyed pea mixture and toss until all ingredients are well coated.
4. Cover the salad and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
– For a milder onion flavor, soak the diced red onion in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding it to the salad.
– If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley.
– Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the drained and rinsed black-eyed peas, quartered cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, diced yellow bell pepper, diced red bell pepper, diced jalapeño, chopped green onions, and chopped cilantro.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix the sugar and rice wine vinegar until the sugar dissolves. Whisk in the avocado oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the black-eyed pea mixture and toss until all ingredients are well coated.
Step 4: Chill the Salad
Cover the salad and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
Soaking Red Onion
For a milder onion flavor, soak the diced red onion in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding it to the salad.
Herb Substitution
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley.
Storage Instructions
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Cook techniques
Combining Ingredients
Gently mix the black-eyed peas, tomatoes, onions, peppers, jalapeño, green onions, and cilantro to ensure even distribution of flavors without mashing the peas.
Making the Dressing
Dissolve sugar in rice wine vinegar first, then whisk in the avocado oil. This method helps emulsify the dressing for better adherence to the salad ingredients.
Flavor Enhancement
Refrigerating the salad for 1-2 hours allows the ingredients to meld, enhancing the overall flavor profile and creating a better taste experience.
Soaking Onions
Soaking diced red onions in cold water for 10 minutes can reduce their sharpness, providing a milder flavor in the salad.
Storage Tips
To keep the salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for up to 4 days.
FAQ
Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes, if using dried black-eyed peas, ensure to soak and cook them beforehand as per package instructions.
What can I substitute for rice wine vinegar?
If rice wine vinegar is not available, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute.
How can I modify the heat of the salad?
To make the salad milder, you can reduce or omit the jalapeño or use a milder pepper variety.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as cucumber, corn, or zucchini to customize the salad to your liking.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep as it stores well in the refrigerator and the flavors develop over time.
Conclusion
This vibrant black-eyed pea salad offers a refreshing combination of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any meal. The mix of fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing not only enhances the taste but also provides a healthy option packed with nutrients. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch, this dish is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Consider adding diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mix in cooked quinoa for added protein and a heartier salad.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Incorporate corn for a sweet crunch that complements the other veggies.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy, savory flavor contrast.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Toss in a handful of spinach or arugula for extra greens and nutrition.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve it over a bed of greens for a fresh salad experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Include diced cucumbers for an extra crispness to the salad.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Top with roasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and flavor depth.
