Looking for something fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor? This Black Eyed Pea Salad is a bright and tangy dish that’s perfect for warm days or when you want a simple, healthy side to share. It’s crunchy, zesty, and full of wholesome ingredients that make every bite refreshing and satisfying.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare and full of protein from the black eye peas.
- Perfect make-ahead dish for potlucks, picnics, or lunch boxes.
- Pairs beautifully with grilled meats or pasta like this Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet.
Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Black Eyed Pea Salad Recipe adds freshness, crunch, or creaminess that makes this salad so irresistible.
- Black eyed peas: The heart of the salad, adding a nutty and creamy bite.
- Cucumber: Adds crisp texture and cool flavor, especially lovely in a Cucumber And Black-eyed Pea Salad combo.
- Tomatoes: Bring sweetness and color to balance the earthy peas.
- Red onion: A sharp contrast that lifts all the flavors.
- Green beans: Add a crunch that pairs well with Black Eyed Peas And Green Beans variations.
- Feta cheese: Salty, creamy crumbles that make this a Black Eyed Pea Salad With Feta Cheese you’ll crave often.
- Olive oil and vinegar: The dressing that ties everything together with a tangy finish.
- Fresh herbs: Cilantro or parsley for brightness and color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This simple Fresh Black Eyed Peas Recipe comes together in just minutes. Let’s make it step by step.
- Drain and rinse the black eye peas. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Chop the cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and green beans into small pieces and add to the bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil and vinegar over the top, then season with salt and pepper.
- Gently toss everything until the dressing coats all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle feta cheese and chopped herbs just before serving for a creamy, bright finish.
Mistakes To Avoid
To make sure your Black Eyed Pea Salad turns out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t overcook the black eye peas; they should be firm, not mushy.
- Don’t skip chilling. Letting it rest at least 30 minutes helps the flavors blend beautifully.
- Don’t overload on dressing. Start with less, then add more if needed.
- Avoid salty add-ins if using feta; balance is key to keeping it light and fresh.
Black Eyed Pea Salad
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups black eyed peas cooked or canned, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green beans blanched and chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
Dressing
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp vinegar white wine or apple cider
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs chopped cilantro or parsley
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the black eyed peas. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Chop the cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and green beans. Add to the bowl with the peas.
- Drizzle olive oil and vinegar over the salad. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss gently to combine and coat all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs just before serving.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh or canned peas, and avoid overcooking to retain their shape.
- Chill before serving for the best flavor.
- Customize with avocado or extra herbs if desired.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh peas if available, but canned ones work too for a quick fix.
- Try adding diced avocado for a creamy twist.
- Pair this salad with crostini like this Simple Garlic Mushroom Crostini for an elegant appetizer.
- Double the batch it tastes even better the next day.
Serving Suggestions
This Black Eye Pea Summer Salad looks gorgeous in a glass bowl and fits any table. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or pasta salads. It’s also a lovely companion to spreads like this Festive Bean Spread.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making your Black Eyed Pea Salad ahead of time helps the flavors deepen. Store it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the feta cheese just before serving to keep it creamy and fresh.
How do I keep the vegetables crisp in the salad?
To keep cucumbers and green beans crunchy, make sure they are completely dry before mixing. Avoid adding too much dressing early toss right before serving for the best texture in your Cucumber And Black-eyed Pea Salad.
Can I use other beans instead of black eyed peas?
Yes, you can substitute with white beans or chickpeas, but the classic taste of Black Eye Peas gives this dish its unique Southern charm and creamy balance that other beans don’t quite match.
Conclusion
Bright, colorful, and full of flavor, this Black Eyed Pea Salad is more than just a side it’s a whole mood of freshness in a bowl. Serve it chilled and enjoy its lively texture that brings sunshine to your table. Don’t forget to save or pin this recipe for your next gathering it’s one you’ll come back to all summer long!
