Black Eyed Pea Salad - Dinner at the Zoo

This black eyed pea salad features assorted fresh vegetables, tender black eyed peas and herbs, all tossed in a zesty homemade dressing. A quick and easy side dish that pairs well with chicken, pork and seafood.

When the weather is warm I’m all about the easy salad recipes including zesty Italian salad, hearty chicken pasta salad, mango salad and this unique and unexpected black eyed pea salad.

In my opinion, black eyed peas are an underrated ingredient. They’re inexpensive, readily available and full of flavor. This black eyed pea salad the perfect blend of creamy peas, crunchy veggies and savory dressing.

Black Eyed Pea Salad Ingredients

To make this recipe, you will need black eyed peas, cherry tomatoes, corn, bell peppers, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, black pepper, cumin and chili powder.

How Do You Make Black Eyed Pea Salad?

Start by placing black eyed peas in a bowl along with cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, bell peppers, jalapeno and cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients. Pour the dressing into the bowl of vegetables, then toss gently to combine. Sprinkle with additional cilantro if desired, then serve and enjoy.

Tips For The Perfect Recipe

• I typically use canned black eyed peas because they’re the easiest type for me to locate. They also have the advantage of being pre-cooked and ready to eat. You can also use fresh or frozen peas, but you’ll need to simmer them until tender before use in this salad.
• This recipe will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing it as the vegetables will soften.
• Serve your salad as a side, or use it as a topping for grilled salmon or grilled chicken breast. You can even cut the vegetables in the salad into smaller pieces and repurpose it as a dip with tortilla chips!
• The seeds and ribs are removed from the jalapeno for this recipe, which means the dish is not spicy at all. If you prefer a little heat, feel free to add in some of the seeds or ribs.

Black Eyed Pea Salad Flavor Variations

While this salad is great as-is, you can absolutely add other ingredients to make the flavors your own.

• Protein: Make it a main course by adding grilled shrimp, or add some other canned beans such as black beans or kidney beans. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese or cubed aged cheddar.
• Vegetables: Feel free to stir in some more vegetables, other great options include baby spinach leaves, avocado, cucumber or celery.
• Toppings: Amp up the flavor with toasted nuts, olives, additional types of herbs or serve with grilled bread slices.

Black eyed pea salad is a great way to celebrate the flavors of summer. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and your guests will be coming back for more!

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