Southern Black Eyed Pea Salad

Bring a burst of Southern charm to your table with this vibrant Southern Black Eyed Pea Salad. This refreshing dish combines the hearty texture of black-eyed peas with nutty brown rice and crisp vegetables, all tied together by a zesty lemon-mint vinaigrette that captures the essence of summer gatherings.

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Whether you are looking for a nutritious lunch or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this salad offers a satisfying crunch and a bright flavor profile. The combination of simple ingredients like celery and red onion provides a classic base that allows the fresh mint and lemon to shine.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups cooked black-eyed peas (drained and rinsed if canned)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice, cooled
• ½ small red onion, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Transfer liquids, oils, and dry ingredients cleanly into bottles and jars while cooking or baking.

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Instructions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, cooked brown rice, red onion, celery, and chopped mint.

Step 2

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 3

Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.

Step 4

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.

Step 5

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Step 6

Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra mint if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Ensure your brown rice is completely cooled before mixing to maintain the salad's light texture. Using a sharp knife for finely dicing the vegetables will help distribute the flavor and crunch evenly throughout the dish.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For additional texture, try adding diced cucumber or bell pepper. If mint isn't to your taste, fresh parsley or cilantro are excellent alternatives. For a non-vegan version, crumbled feta cheese adds a lovely tangy richness.

Serviervorschläge

This salad is best served chilled as a light lunch or a side for grilled proteins. It travels exceptionally well, making it a reliable choice for potlucks, picnics, or office meal prep.

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Enjoy the wholesome goodness and zesty flair of this Southern Black Eyed Pea Salad. It is a simple yet sophisticated way to celebrate fresh ingredients and hearty staples in one delicious bowl.

Keeps spoons and utensils off counters while cooking, catching drips and keeping your stovetop clean.

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Recipe Questions

→ Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?

Absolutely. Cook ½ cup dried peas according to package directions until tender, then drain and cool. This typically takes about 45-60 minutes of simmering. You'll need approximately 1 ½ cups cooked peas for this dish.

→ How long does this salad keep in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, this salad stays fresh for 3-4 days. The vegetables may soften slightly over time, but the flavors actually improve as they meld together. Add fresh mint just before serving if making ahead.

→ Can I make this salad ahead for a party?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep and entertaining. Make it up to 24 hours in advance, store refrigerated, and give it a gentle toss before serving. If adding extra vegetables like cucumber, add them closer to serving time to maintain crunch.

→ What can I substitute for fresh mint?

Fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil work wonderfully as alternatives. Each brings a different flavor profile—cilantro adds brightness, parsley offers earthiness, while basil contributes subtle sweetness. Use the same quantity as the mint.

→ Is this suitable for meal prepping?

Excellent choice. The hearty base holds up well throughout the week. Portion into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches. Consider storing the dressing separately if you prefer maximum crunch, then toss just before eating.

→ Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?

Certainly. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even diced hard-boiled eggs complement the flavors beautifully. For plant-based protein, try adding roasted chickpeas or hemp seeds. The salad already provides 8g protein per serving, making it quite satisfying on its own.