In my kitchen, this salad has become a staple, often gracing our table during family gatherings and casual dinners alike. It’s a dish that invites conversation and laughter, as everyone enjoys the bright colors and fresh flavors. With just a handful of ingredients, the Spring Pea and Mint Salad for Spring is an easy side dish recipe that anyone can whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or festive celebrations. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and embrace the beauty of spring together!

What is Spring Pea and Mint Salad For Spring?

The Spring Pea and Mint Salad is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of spring through its use of seasonal ingredients. This salad has roots in various culinary traditions, showcasing how different cultures celebrate fresh flavors during the warmer months. The combination of sweet, tender peas and aromatic mint creates a refreshing experience that is both satisfying and light.

As I prepare this salad, I often reflect on the importance of using fresh, local produce. The peas symbolize renewal, while the mint adds a burst of freshness that awakens the palate. This dish is not just about taste; it embodies the joy of light dishes that can be enjoyed in the sunshine. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that can elevate any meal, making it a perfect addition to your collection of spring salad recipes.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, the Spring Pea and Mint Salad is sure to impress. It’s a celebration of spring on a plate, inviting everyone to savor the season’s bounty.

Why You’ll Love This Spring Pea and Mint Salad

Quick and easy preparation: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Refreshing taste perfect for warm weather: The combination of peas and mint creates a light, invigorating flavor that’s ideal for spring.
Nutritional benefits of peas and mint: Peas are packed with vitamins and fiber, while mint aids digestion and adds a fresh aroma.
Family-friendly appeal: This salad is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great addition to any family meal.

Who It’s For

This salad is perfect for busy families looking for quick, healthy meals, health-conscious individuals wanting to incorporate more fresh produce, and food enthusiasts eager to explore new spring recipes. It’s a versatile dish that can cater to various dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

When to Cook It

Enjoy the Spring Pea and Mint Salad during weeknight dinners when you need something quick and nutritious. It’s also a fantastic choice for picnics, spring celebrations, and as a refreshing side for barbecues. This salad shines in any setting, bringing a touch of spring to your table.

2 cups fresh peas (you can substitute with frozen peas, but fresh is best for flavor)
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (basil can be a nice alternative if you prefer)
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (green onions work well too)
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (for a vegan option, use a plant-based feta)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice (lime juice can be used for a different twist)
Salt and pepper to taste

In a large bowl, combine the fresh peas, chopped mint, and finely chopped red onion. The vibrant colors will instantly brighten your day!
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing is simple yet elevates the salad with its zesty flavor.
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to mash the peas; you want them to remain whole for that delightful crunch.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top before serving. This adds a creamy texture that complements the freshness of the salad.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. I love letting it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

If you’re looking to reduce sugar in your diet, consider using alternatives like:

Stevia: A natural sweetener that has no calories and won’t spike blood sugar levels.
Monk fruit: Another natural option that is low in calories and has a sweet taste without affecting blood sugar.
Allulose: A rare sugar that has minimal impact on blood glucose and is a great substitute in dressings.

Avoid using honey or maple syrup, as these can add unnecessary sugars that may affect blood sugar levels.

Large mixing bowl: For combining all the fresh ingredients.
Small mixing bowl: To whisk together the dressing ingredients.
Whisk or fork: For mixing the dressing until well combined.
Knife: To finely chop the red onion and mint leaves.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping your ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
Serving spoon: For tossing and serving the salad.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest peas and mint you can find. The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the flavor of your Spring Pea and Mint Salad.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Experiment with Textures: For added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts. They not only provide a delightful texture but also a nutty flavor that complements the peas.
Herb Variations: While mint is the star, don’t hesitate to mix in other herbs like basil or parsley for a unique twist. Each herb brings its own character to the dish.
Presentation Matters: Serve the salad in a beautiful bowl and garnish with extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of feta on top. A visually appealing dish makes the meal even more enjoyable.
Season Gradually: When adding salt and pepper, do so gradually. Taste as you go to ensure the seasoning enhances the salad without overpowering the fresh flavors.

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Spring Pea and Mint Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
Keep Feta Separate: If you plan to store the salad, consider adding the feta cheese just before serving. This helps maintain its creamy texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the peas and mint will change once thawed. Fresh ingredients are best enjoyed right away.
Serving Cold: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If it has been in the fridge, give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the flavors.
Flavor Enhancement: If the salad seems a bit dry after refrigeration, drizzle a little extra olive oil or lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors.

Overdressing the salad: It’s easy to get carried away with the dressing, but too much can overwhelm the fresh flavors of the peas and mint. Start with a little and add more if needed.
Using wilted mint: Fresh mint is key to this salad’s vibrant flavor. Always check your mint for freshness; wilted leaves can detract from the overall taste and presentation.
Not chilling before serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing. Serving it at room temperature can result in a less enjoyable experience.

Can I use frozen peas? Yes, but fresh peas are recommended for the best flavor. Fresh peas have a sweetness and crunch that frozen peas may lack.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep? It depends; add feta just before serving for freshness. This way, the cheese stays creamy and doesn’t make the salad soggy.
Can I make this salad vegan? Yes, simply omit the feta or use a vegan alternative. There are many delicious plant-based cheeses available that can complement the salad beautifully.

The Spring Pea and Mint Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of the season’s freshest flavors and a reminder of the joy that comes from simple, wholesome ingredients. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, this salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a sunny picnic in the park. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or variations.

Have you made this salad or a version of it? I’d love to hear your thoughts and any tips you might have! Please share your experiences in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to embrace the beauty of spring through our cooking.

Spring Pea and Mint Salad For Spring

Author: Kelly
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing and vibrant salad perfect for spring, featuring fresh peas and mint.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh peas
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the fresh peas, chopped mint, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss gently to combine.
Sprinkle the feta cheese on top before serving.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Discover my favorite kitchen tools I always use.

Notes

For added crunch, consider adding toasted nuts.
This salad can be made a few hours in advance; just add the feta right before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 150
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Spring salad recipes, pea and mint salad, fresh pea recipes, healthy spring salad, quick salad recipes, light summer dishes, easy side dish recipes

Kelly Merritt