Spring Pea and Mint Salad is the kind of dish that bursts with life, as vibrant as a fresh garden after the rain. Picture this: the snap of sweet peas mingling with the coolness of mint, all drizzled with a zesty Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls asparagus and Lemon Basil Rolls It’s like springtime on a plate, perfect for those sunny afternoons when you want something light yet satisfying.
I remember the first time I made this salad at a family picnic. My uncle, who usually sticks to burgers and hot dogs, took one look at it and said, “Can I eat it or should I take a picture?” It was an instant hit! Whether you’re throwing a backyard BBQ or just looking to impress your friends at brunch, this Spring Pea and Mint Salad will have everyone asking for seconds. White Chocolate Strawberry Truffles.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spring Pea and Mint Salad comes together in minutes, making meal prep a breeze
- Its refreshing flavor profile bursts with sweetness and zest, perfect for warm weather
- Vibrantly green and visually appealing, it brightens any table setting
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or light main course
When I served this salad last summer, my cousin declared it “life-changing,” which might be an exaggeration but hey, we all have our moments.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Peas: Use sweet garden peas for the best flavor; frozen peas work well in a pinch.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: Opt for vibrant green leaves for maximum aroma; they really elevate the dish.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds brightness; bottled juice lacks that zing.
- Olive Oil: A quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; it’s worth splurging on.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a creamy texture and salty bite; goat cheese is a great alternative.
- Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts add crunch; walnuts or almonds can be used instead.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all flavors, don’t forget these little guys!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. You will need fresh peas, mint leaves, lemon juice, olive oil, feta cheese, pine nuts, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Peas: Bring a small pot of salted water to boil. Add fresh peas and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain them quickly under cold water to maintain their color.
Toss in Mint and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine cooled peas with chopped mint leaves. Drizzle in lemon juice and olive oil. Toss gently until everything is coated beautifully.
Add Feta and Pine Nuts: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts over the salad. These elements provide creaminess and crunch that takes this dish up several notches.
Mix It All Together: Gently fold everything together using two spoons or spatulas until well combined. Be careful not to mash anything, celebrate those lovely whole peas!
Serve Immediately or Chill**: You can enjoy this salad right away for maximum freshness or chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Enjoy every delightful bite of your Spring Pea and Mint Salad! It’s not just food; it’s an experience wrapped in vibrant colors and fresh flavors waiting to dance on your taste buds! Spring Bunny Bread.
You Must Know
- This vibrant Spring Pea and Mint Salad is refreshing, easy to prepare, and perfect for spring gatherings
- The sweet peas paired with mint create a delightful burst of flavor
- Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal that celebrates the season’s bounty
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by blanching peas to enhance their sweetness, then mix with fresh mint and your favorite dressing for a quick yet delicious salad.
Add Your Touch
For added texture, consider tossing in some toasted nuts or crumbled cheese like feta. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Enjoy cold; reheating may compromise the salad’s freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh peas for maximum sweetness; frozen peas can work but won’t have the same crunch
- Always rinse herbs before chopping to remove any dirt
- A touch of olive oil enhances flavors without overpowering them
Sharing this salad recipe reminds me of my first spring gathering where friends raved about how refreshing it was, who knew veggies could steal the show?
FAQ
What can I substitute for mint in this Spring Pea and Mint Salad?
For more inspiration, check out this Irish Soda Bread recipe.
Try using basil or cilantro if you’re not a mint fan; both add unique flavors.
How long do I need to blanch the peas?
Blanch peas for about 1-2 minutes until bright green; then cool them quickly.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a few hours early but add dressing just before serving for freshness.

Refreshing Spring Pea and Mint Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This vibrant Spring Pea and Mint Salad is a celebration of fresh flavors, perfect for sunny days. Sweet garden peas combine with aromatic mint, all elevated by a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Quick to prepare, this salad shines as a side dish or light main course, guaranteed to impress at any gathering.
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 in salted boiling water for 3 minutes until tender but bright green. Drain and cool under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled peas with chopped mint, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss gently.
- Add crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts, mixing carefully to avoid mashing the peas.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg