Delicious Irish Pea Salad That Everyone Will Love

Hi I'm Melany

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on July 30, 2025

There’s something truly enchanting about the clear, green fields of Ireland that inspires warmth and comfort, much like this Delicious Irish Pea Salad. Combining sweet, tender peas with crunchy veggies, creamy cheddar, and a zesty dressing, this dish is a visual feast perfect for potlucks or as a delightful side to your favorite mains. One of the best parts? It’s vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a versatile favorite for everyone around the table. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just looking for a fresh take on garden salads, this creamy delight is sure to elevate your meal. Curious how to blend these vibrant flavors into your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why will you love this Irish Pea Salad?

Wholesome, Vibrant Ingredients: This salad is packed with vibrant colors and textures, featuring sweet peas, crisp veggies, and sharp cheddar that create a delightful harmony.

Versatile Dish: Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner, this salad adapts beautifully, complementing everything from grilled chicken to hearty shepherd’s pie.

Quick and Easy: With simple steps, this salad comes together in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute potluck contributions.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy dressing melds perfectly with the fresh ingredients, making it a hit at gatherings; everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Diet-friendly Appeal: This delicious Irish Pea Salad is not only vegetarian but also gluten-free, catering to diverse dietary needs with ease, much like our Caramel Apple Cookies which are perfect for fall gatherings.

Delicious Irish Pea Salad Ingredients

• Get ready to create this mouthwatering salad with fresh and colorful ingredients!

For the Salad

Frozen peas – Adds sweetness and texture; fresh peas can be used; blanch briefly to maintain color and crunch.
Diced cheddar cheese – Provides creaminess and flavor; swap with mozzarella or Jack cheese for a milder taste.
Chopped celery – Offers a crunchy texture; no substitutions needed; enhances freshness.
Chopped red bell pepper – Adds color and a sweet crunch; must-have for vibrant presentation; can omit if desired.
Finely chopped red onion – Contributes a sharp bite; can be substituted with green onions for a milder flavor.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base for the dressing; Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter version.
Sour cream – Adds tanginess and richness; can substitute with additional mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
Apple cider vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; lemon juice can be used for a similar effect.
Sugar – Balances the dressing’s acidity; adjust quantity based on taste.
Salt and black pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to personal preference.

With these ingredients, you’ll create a Delicious Irish Pea Salad that everyone at the table will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delicious Irish Pea Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Begin by thawing 2 cups of frozen peas in a fine mesh strainer under cool running water for about 3-5 minutes until they’re vibrant green. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas with 1 cup of diced cheddar cheese, 1 cup of chopped celery, 1 cup of chopped red bell pepper, and ½ cup of finely chopped red onion. Gently fold these colorful ingredients together until evenly mixed, creating the foundation of your Delicious Irish Pea Salad.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps; this creamy dressing is what brings your Delicious Irish Pea Salad to life. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a tad more vinegar or sugar to balance flavors as preferred.

Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the mixed salad ingredients in the larger bowl, taking care to coat everything generously. With a gentle touch, toss the salad mixture to ensure every vibrant piece is embraced by the velvety dressing. This step is crucial for achieving the harmonious flavor that makes your Delicious Irish Pea Salad irresistible; it should gleam with the creamy dressing.

Step 4: Chill for Flavor Development
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing every bite of your Delicious Irish Pea Salad. If you’re preparing ahead of time, feel free to chill it for up to 24 hours for even deeper flavor infusion.

Step 5: Serve with a Gentle Stir
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the refrigerator and give it a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. This will ensure each serving is bursting with flavor and texture. Using a large spoon or spatula, transfer the refreshed Delicious Irish Pea Salad to your serving dish, and watch everyone gather around as they admire its vibrant colors and enticing aroma!

Delicious Irish Pea Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this Irish pea salad to suit your tastes and needs!

Protein Boost: Adding diced ham or crispy bacon introduces a savory element that elevates the dish. The combination of creamy and smoky flavors is delightful!
Vegetarian Twist: For those seeking a hearty option, mix in hard-boiled eggs. They add richness and a comforting texture to complement the peas beautifully.
Herb-Infused: Toss fresh herbs like dill, mint, or parsley into the salad for a refreshing burst of flavor. These herbs create an aromatic lift that delights the senses.
Creamy Lightness: If you’re aiming for a lighter dish, swap half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This not only reduces calories but also enhances the creaminess with a tangy twist.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It transforms the classic salad into something exciting and vibrant!
Crunchy Add-ins: Incorporate toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch. They provide a delightful contrast to the creamy texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Seasonal Produce: Take advantage of seasonal veggies! This salad is lovely with fresh peas, corn, or diced cucumbers, adding a pop of color and crunchy goodness.
Flavorful Dressings: Experiment with different dressings! Try a yogurt-based ranch or a zesty vinaigrette for unique flavor profiles that can redefine this salad experience.

With these variations and substitutions, your Delicious Irish Pea Salad can be as unique as your culinary style! Pair it with hearty mains or enjoy it on its own like our tasty Grinch Popcorn Fun for a delightful adventure of flavors.

What to Serve with Delicious Irish Pea Salad?

Prepare for a delightful culinary experience with perfect pairings that elevate your meal beyond the ordinary.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds heartiness, while its smoky flavors contrast beautifully with the creamy salad.
Corned Beef: This classic Irish dish brings a savory depth that harmonizes perfectly with the fresh and tangy notes of the salad.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty baguettes or Irish soda bread for a satisfying bite, perfect for soaking up all the creamy goodness.
Shepherd’s Pie: The comforting, rich layers of shepherd’s pie balance the crisp vegetable textures of the pea salad beautifully.
Baked Fish: Light, flaky fish like cod or haddock offers a delicate counterpart to the rich flavors of the Delicious Irish Pea Salad.
Cold Beverages: Refresh with a crisp white wine or a light lager, enhancing the meal’s freshness and pairing nicely with the creamy dressing.
Seasonal Fruit Salad: A vibrant, fruity mix brightens up the table, complementing the creaminess while adding a sweet and refreshing touch.

This blend of delicious options creates a memorable dining experience, whether for an intimate dinner or a lively potluck!

How to Store and Freeze Delicious Irish Pea Salad

Fridge: Store your Delicious Irish Pea Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This not only keeps it fresh but allows the flavors to continue to develop.

Reheating: If you’ve made extra and plan to serve it later, remember that this salad is best enjoyed cold. There’s no need to reheat; simply serve it chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead: Feel free to prepare the salad a day in advance, keeping it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to mix the dressing evenly.

Freezer: Avoid freezing the salad as the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables do not maintain their quality, leading to a change in texture and taste.

Expert Tips for Delicious Irish Pea Salad

Chill Time Matters: Allow the salad to chill for at least one hour; this enhances flavor blending and makes the salad taste even better.
Add Last-Minute Cheese: For an unbeatable freshness, add the cheddar cheese just before serving to maintain its creamy texture in the Delicious Irish Pea Salad.
Adjust to Taste: Always taste your dressing before adding to the salad; this way, you can tweak the sweetness or acidity to your liking.
Storage Tip: The salad lasts up to three days in the fridge, and the flavors improve after a day, so it’s a great make-ahead option.
Avoid Freezing: Don’t freeze this salad; the mayonnaise and fresh veggies don’t hold up well and may alter the texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Delicious Irish Pea Salad is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time throughout the week! You can prepare the salad ingredients—thawed peas, cheddar, celery, bell pepper, and onion—up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, mix the creamy dressing (mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper) and refrigerate it separately up to 24 hours ahead. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the chilled ingredients with the dressing and give it a gentle stir. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious results with minimal effort!

Delicious Irish Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of peas should I use for the salad?
You can use frozen peas for convenience, as they provide sweetness and texture. Simply thaw them under cool running water for 3-5 minutes. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh peas are a delightful choice too; just remember to blanch them briefly to maintain their vibrant color and crunch!

How long can I store the Delicious Irish Pea Salad in the fridge?
Absolutely! Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the salad taste even better after a day in the fridge. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving!

Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Very much so! I often prepare my Delicious Irish Pea Salad a day in advance. Just ensure it is stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving. This make-ahead approach is perfect for busy days or for getting a jumpstart on potluck preparations.

Is it possible to freeze the salad?
I recommend avoiding freezing the salad. The mayonnaise and fresh vegetables don’t hold up well in the freezer and may alter the texture and flavor when thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh in the fridge for the best taste!

Are there any allergy considerations for this salad?
Yes! The salad contains dairy ingredients like cheese and sour cream, making it unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. For a dairy-free version, consider using plant-based cheese alternatives and coconut yogurt or a dairy-free mayo for the dressing. Always check ingredient labels for any possible allergens if you’re serving guests.

What adjustments can I make for dietary preferences?
The Delicious Irish Pea Salad is already vegetarian and gluten-free, but you can easily customize it further! To boost protein, consider adding diced ham or crispy bacon. Alternatively, for a lighter version, swap some of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also add a wonderful twist!