Green Pea Salad with Cheddar Cheese Recipe

Green peas: Sweet and tender, these peas add a burst of freshness to the salad.

Cheddar cheese: Provides a rich, sharp flavor that complements the sweetness of the peas.

Red onion: Adds a bit of crunch and a mild, tangy taste.

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

Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy kick to the dressing, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise.

Sugar: Just a touch to enhance the natural sweetness of the peas.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the salad.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the dish.

When preparing the green peas for this salad, ensure they are fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the flavors of the mayonnaise dressing. For a more vibrant taste, consider blanching the peas briefly in boiling water, then plunging them into ice water to maintain their bright color and crisp texture.

• green peas - Substitute with edamame: Edamame provides a similar texture and a slightly different but complementary flavor.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy element that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• red onion - Substitute with green onion: Green onion offers a milder flavor and a bit of color contrast.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture with less fat and added protein.

• apple cider vinegar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice adds a fresh, acidic note that balances the richness of the dish.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a bit of depth to the flavor profile.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds umami and a bit of saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and complexity to the salad.

• Ensure the green peas are completely thawed and any excess water is drained before storing the salad. This prevents the salad from becoming watery.

• Transfer the green pea salad to an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the salad from absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator.

• Store the salad in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For optimal taste and texture, consume it within this time frame.

• If you plan to freeze the salad, note that mayonnaise doesn't freeze well and can separate upon thawing. To freeze, consider making the salad without the mayonnaise and adding it fresh after thawing.

• For freezing, place the salad in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of how long it has been stored. The salad can be frozen for up to 1 month.

• When ready to use, thaw the salad in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, add the mayonnaise and mix well before serving.

• Always check the salad for any signs of spoilage, such as off smells or discoloration, before consuming.

• If you prefer a warm version of the green pea salad, gently heat it in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheddar cheese from becoming too oily.
• For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place the salad in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute the heat evenly.
• To maintain the salad's texture, consider reheating only the green peas and red onion mixture. Once warmed, mix in the cheddar cheese and mayonnaise dressing just before serving.
• If you want to keep the salad chilled but soften the cheddar cheese slightly, let the salad sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This method keeps the peas and onions crisp while making the cheese more palatable.
• For a unique twist, consider reheating the salad in a baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method can create a slightly melted and creamy texture, transforming the salad into a comforting side dish.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine all the ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the exact amount of green peas, cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the apple cider vinegar and sugar accurately.

• Spatula: Useful for mixing the ingredients thoroughly without mashing the peas.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for dicing the red onion.

• Chef's knife: Essential for dicing the red onion finely.

• Serving bowl: Used to present the salad in an appealing manner.

• Refrigerator: To chill the salad before serving, enhancing its flavors.

Thaw peas quickly: Place frozen peas in a colander and run cold water over them for a few minutes to thaw them quickly.

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

Pre-diced onions: Buy pre-diced red onions from the store to avoid chopping.

Mix dressing ahead: Prepare the mayonnaise mixture in advance and store it in the fridge.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals later in the week.