Green Pea Salad with Cheddar Cheese Recipe

Green peas: These are the star of the salad, offering a sweet and tender bite. Use frozen peas that have been thawed for best results.

Cheddar cheese: Adds a rich and creamy texture to the salad. Opt for a sharp cheddar to balance the sweetness of the peas.

Red onion: Provides a crisp texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base for the dressing, binding all the ingredients together.

Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy kick to the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.

Sugar: A small amount is used to balance the acidity of the vinegar and the creaminess of the mayonnaise.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance the flavors of the salad and bring everything together.

When preparing this green pea salad, ensure that the peas are fully thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture from diluting the dressing. For a more intense flavor, consider letting the red onion soak in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding it to the salad; this will mellow its sharpness. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Additionally, for a touch of freshness, consider adding a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance the overall flavor profile.

• frozen, thawed green peas - Substitute with edamame: Edamame offers a similar texture and a slightly nutty flavor that complements the salad well.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta provides a tangy and creamy contrast to the sweetness of the peas.

• finely chopped red onion - Substitute with green onions: Green onions have a milder flavor and add a fresh, crisp element to the salad.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that adds creaminess and a slight tang.

• apple cider vinegar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a bright acidity that enhances the flavors in the salad.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a touch of floral flavor.

• salt and pepper - Substitute with soy sauce and white pepper: Soy sauce adds umami and depth, while white pepper provides a subtle heat.

• To keep your green pea salad fresh and delightful, store it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its crispness and prevent any unwanted flavors from mingling with your vibrant cheddar cheese and red onion.

• Place the container in the refrigerator, where it can comfortably chill for up to three days. This ensures that each bite remains as refreshing as the first.

• If you wish to prepare the salad in advance, consider storing the green peas, cheddar cheese, and red onion separately from the mayonnaise dressing. Combine them just before serving to preserve the salad's texture and flavor.

• For those who love to plan ahead, freezing is an option, though not ideal. The mayonnaise dressing may separate upon thawing, altering the salad's creamy consistency. If you choose to freeze, do so without the dressing, and add it fresh after thawing.

• When freezing, use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, which can compromise the taste and texture of your green pea salad.

• To thaw, transfer the salad to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost slowly overnight. This gentle thawing process helps retain the salad's original flavors and textures.

• Once thawed, give the salad a good stir to reincorporate any separated ingredients and restore its creamy allure. Adjust the seasoning with a touch more salt and pepper if needed, to bring back its delightful zing.

• Gently warm the green pea salad in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, but be careful not to overcook the peas as they can become mushy. This method helps maintain the texture of the cheddar cheese and the crunch of the red onion.

• Use a microwave-safe dish and cover the salad with a damp paper towel. Heat in the microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until just warmed through. This prevents the mayonnaise from separating and keeps the salad from drying out.

• For a unique twist, transform the green pea salad into a warm dip. Place it in an oven-safe dish, sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve with crackers or bread for dipping.

• If you prefer a more integrated flavor, combine the salad with a bit of cream cheese or sour cream before reheating. This will create a creamy, cohesive dish that can be gently warmed in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the ingredients together, ensuring even distribution of the dressing with the peas, cheese, and onion.

• Measuring cups: Used to accurately measure the quantities of peas, cheese, and mayonnaise needed for the recipe.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for measuring smaller quantities like apple cider vinegar and sugar to maintain the balance of flavors.

• Whisk: Useful for mixing the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar together to create a smooth dressing.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring the salad ingredients together, ensuring everything is well coated with the dressing.

• Knife: Needed for finely chopping the red onion to add a bit of crunch and flavor to the salad.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping the red onion.

• Serving spoon: Used to serve the salad once it is chilled and ready to eat.

Thaw peas quickly: Place frozen peas in a colander and run them under cold water for a few minutes to speed up the thawing process.

Pre-shredded cheese: Use pre-shredded cheddar cheese to save time on grating.

Chop onions in advance: Finely chop the red onion ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Mix dressing first: Prepare the mayonnaise mixture before adding other ingredients to ensure even distribution.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and store leftovers for a quick meal option later.