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Spring Pea Salad with Lemon Dressing

This vibrant spring salad features raw, sweet peas tossed with a bright, tangy lemon dressing. The dish highlights the crisp texture and natural sweetness of fresh peas, complemented by fresh herbs and optional cheese for added flavor. It’s a quick, light dish perfect for capturing the fleeting freshness of early spring.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Spring
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fresh peas preferably shelled and in their pods
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest from about half a lemon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin recommended
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs mint or basil, chopped
  • 1/4 red onion red onion thinly sliced
  • to taste salt preferably flaky sea salt
  • to taste black pepper freshly ground
  • optional crumbled feta or goat cheese for topping

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Sharp knife
  • Citrus juicer
  • Salad spoon

Method
 

  1. Bring a small saucepan of water to a boil, then add a pinch of salt. Carefully drop in the fresh peas and blanch for 30 seconds to 1 minute until they turn a vibrant green and are slightly tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the peas to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process and preserve their bright color.
  2. While the peas cool, zest the lemon, then juice it using a citrus juicer. In your medium mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil until the dressing is smooth and slightly emulsified. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Drain the cooled peas thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel. Add the peas to the bowl with the lemon dressing, then gently toss to coat each pea evenly. This helps the bright dressing cling to the crisp, sweet peas.
  4. Slice the red onion thinly and add it to the salad, along with the chopped fresh herbs. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the onion and herbs are evenly distributed for bursts of flavor and aroma.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Let it sit for about 5 minutes at room temperature so the flavors can meld beautifully.
  6. Transfer the salad to a serving dish or bowl. If using cheese, crumble it over the top now for a creamy, tangy contrast. Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil or a few fresh herbs for garnish.
  7. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture of the peas and the fresh brightness of the lemon dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your spring gatherings.

Notes

For the freshest flavor, use freshly shelled peas and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Feel free to add crumbled feta or chopped herbs for extra richness and aroma. Serve immediately for the best texture and brightness.