Mediterranean Minty Pea Salad

πŸ•’ Prep: 15 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to a fresh take on salad that's perfect for any occasion! Our Mediterranean Minty Pea Salad is a vibrant dish that brings together the coolness of mint with the creamy tang of feta. It's a refreshing, simple, and flavor-packed choice that delights every bite.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Minty Pea Salad

Frozen peas are convenient and sweet, offering a pop of color and subtle flavor. Cucumber adds a crisp and hydrating crunch. Fresh mint leaves, chopped finely, infuse the salad with a cool, aromatic freshness. Feta cheese provides a salty, creamy contrast that complements the freshness of the salad. Red onion offers a sharp bite and vibrant color. The olive oil and lemon juice dressing brings everything together, while garlic adds a hint of warmth and depth. A bit of salt and pepper ties it all up perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

  • Thaw peas quickly by placing them in a colander and running cold water over them for a minute or two.
  • For a milder onion flavor, soak the red onion slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
  • If you have time, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an ideal side for a summer barbecue. You can also serve it alongside warm pita bread for a light, satisfying meal. If you're hosting, try presenting it on a large platter for a visually appealing dish that your guests can easily help themselves to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just briefly blanch them in boiling water to keep their bright color and tender texture.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you're not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or even a mild blue cheese for a different twist.
How long will this salad keep in the fridge?
It can last for up to 2 days in the fridge. Just be aware that the cucumbers might release some water, so give it a good toss before serving.

Mediterranean Minty Pea Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl where all the magic will happen. Pour in the thawed peas first; they provide a sweet foundation for our salad. Next, toss in the diced cucumber for that refreshing crunch we love. Sprinkle in the chopped mint leaves, spreading them out so their aroma infuses every bite. Add in the crumbled feta cheese; make sure it’s evenly distributed for a perfect balance of creaminess throughout.

Now, let’s add some color and bite with the thinly sliced red onion. Mix these ingredients gently with your hands or a spoon, ensuring everything is well combined without mashing the peas.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. This dressing is simple but packs a punch. Season it with salt and pepper to taste, then give it a quick whisk to blend.

Pour the dressing over the pea mixture. Toss everything gently until each ingredient is lightly coated with the dressing. This ensures every forkful is bursting with flavor. You can serve it right away, or let it chill in the refrigerator for up to two hours if you prefer the flavors to meld a bit more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare – perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  • Features a refreshing combination of mint and lemon that wakes up your taste buds.
  • Uses simple, readily available ingredients yet delivers a complex flavor profile.
  • Great for meal prep – the flavors only get better as they meld in the fridge.

Ingredients

2 cups frozen peas, thawed
1 large cucumber, diced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, diced cucumber, chopped mint leaves, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.

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