Description
A light and refreshing Spring Pea and Mint Salad combining tender sweet peas, fresh mint, tangy lemon juice, and creamy feta cheese, topped with toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. Perfect as a quick, healthy side dish or a vibrant appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh sweet peas (or frozen)
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (or chopped walnuts/almonds)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Blanch the peas: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the peas for 3 minutes until they become tender yet maintain a bright green color. Drain the peas and immediately cool them under cold running water to stop cooking.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled peas with chopped fresh mint, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. Toss carefully to evenly coat without mashing the peas.
- Add cheese and nuts: Fold in crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts, mixing delicately to keep the peas intact and preserve the salad’s texture.
- Chill and serve: Serve the salad immediately for a fresh bite or chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to meld the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Blanching the peas enhances their natural sweetness and preserves their vibrant color.
- Fresh mint adds a bright, aromatic flavor that complements the peas beautifully.
- Pine nuts add a rich, nutty crunch; walnuts or almonds can be used as alternatives.
- Feel free to swap feta cheese with tangy goat cheese for a variation in flavor.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be prepared ahead and kept chilled for up to 1 day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
