Green Pea Salad with Cheddar Cheese Recipe

Green peas: These are the base of the salad, providing a sweet and tender texture.

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

Red onion: Provides a crunchy texture and a bit of spice to balance the flavors.

Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy binder that brings all the ingredients together.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy note that brightens up the salad.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the salad.

When preparing the green peas for this salad, ensure they are fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the flavors. For a more vibrant taste, consider blanching the peas briefly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then plunging them into ice water to maintain their bright color and crisp texture. This technique enhances the peas' natural sweetness and provides a delightful contrast to the creamy mayonnaise and sharp cheddar cheese.

• frozen and thawed green peas - Substitute with edamame: Edamame has a similar texture and slightly nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

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

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

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a creamy texture and a tangy flavor, making the salad lighter and healthier.

• fresh lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity and brightness to the salad.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory depth and a bit of umami to the salad.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice to the salad, enhancing its flavor profile.

• Store the green pea salad in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Keep the container in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 days. The mayonnaise and cheddar cheese will help preserve the salad, but it's best enjoyed within this timeframe.
• If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, consider storing the green peas, cheddar cheese, and red onion separately from the mayonnaise and lemon juice. Combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
• To freeze the salad, place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. The salad can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• When ready to use, thaw the salad in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, give it a good stir to reincorporate the mayonnaise and lemon juice.
• Be aware that freezing may alter the texture of the green peas and cheddar cheese. The mayonnaise might also separate slightly, so a quick mix will help bring it back together.
• For the best taste and texture, consider adding a bit of fresh lemon juice and a touch more mayonnaise after thawing to refresh the salad.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer the green pea salad to a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small corner open to vent.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check the temperature and heat for an additional 30 seconds if needed. Be cautious not to overheat, as the cheddar cheese may become too melted.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place the green pea salad in a non-stick skillet over low heat.
  2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even heating.
  3. Heat for about 3-5 minutes or until the salad is warmed through. Avoid high heat to prevent the mayonnaise from separating.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Transfer the green pea salad to an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  4. Heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Check the temperature and heat for an additional 5 minutes if needed.

• Double Boiler Method:

  1. Fill the bottom pot of a double boiler with water and bring it to a simmer.
  2. Place the green pea salad in the top pot.
  3. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes or until the salad is warmed through. This gentle method helps maintain the texture of the green peas and prevents the mayonnaise from breaking.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the green peas, cheddar cheese, and red onion, as well as to mix in the mayonnaise and lemon juice.

• Measuring cups: These are essential for accurately measuring the green peas, cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure the fresh lemon juice.

• Chopping board: This is needed for chopping the red onion.

• Chef's knife: Use this to chop the red onion finely.

• Spatula: This will help you mix all the ingredients together thoroughly.

• Refrigerator: Chill the salad in here for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Serving bowl: Transfer the chilled salad into this bowl for serving.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Pre-chop onions: Buy pre-chopped red onions from the store to skip the chopping step.

Quick thaw peas: Thaw frozen peas quickly by placing them in a colander and running cold water over them for a few minutes.

Mix in a large bowl: Use a large mixing bowl to combine all ingredients at once, reducing the need for multiple bowls.

Chill in advance: Prepare the salad the night before and let it chill overnight for better flavor and convenience.