Delicious Irish Pea Salad

This creamy Irish pea salad brings together sweet tender peas, sharp cheddar, crisp celery, and red bell pepper tossed in a tangy rich dressing. It is the dish I rely on when I need something fast but cheerful for family potlucks or busy weeknights. No matter the occasion, the bright colors and fresh flavors always have people going in for seconds.

I first brought this to a St. Patrick’s Day brunch a decade ago, and my family still requests it every spring. Even my brother, who does not do vegetables, polishes off an entire bowl when I set this on the table. The appeal is irresistible.

Ingredients

• Frozen peas: choose petite or baby peas for the sweetest flavor and best texture
• Cheddar cheese: adds rich, savory depth sharp cheddar balances the sweetness of the peas
• Celery: essential for crunch and a subtle green freshness look for firm crisp stalks with no browning
• Red bell pepper: brings sweet crunch and a pop of color choose firm peppers with glossy skin
• Red onion: adds zing and sharpness soaking cut onions in cold water softens their flavor
• Mayonnaise: creamy base for the dressing use real mayonnaise for classic taste
• Sour cream: brings tang and a lighter mouthfeel
• Apple cider vinegar: adds acidity to balance out the richness and highlight the sweetness of the peas
• Sugar: ties together all the flavors and amps the natural sweetness
• Salt and black pepper: necessary for seasoning use freshly cracked pepper for a hint of spicy warmth

Instructions

Prepare The Vegetables:

Thaw peas in a colander then gently pat them dry with paper towels to avoid watery salad. Dice the cheddar into small cubes matching the size of the peas for uniform bites. Finely chop celery, bell pepper, and red onion so every forkful has a good mix of texture and color.

Mix The Salad Components:

Place peas, cheese, celery, bell pepper, and onion in a large bowl. Use gentle hands or a spatula to mix so the peas stay whole.

Create The Dressing:

Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a separate small bowl until very smooth and glossy. Taste for seasoning and adjust as you like.

Combine And Chill:

Pour the creamy dressing over the salad mixture. Fold everything together just until evenly coated; no aggressive stirring or you will lose the plump pea texture. Cover and refrigerate at least one hour and up to overnight so the flavors bloom.

Final Touch:

Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to recirculate the dressing. Taste again and add another pinch of salt or a crack of pepper if needed.

The red bell pepper is my favorite touch in this recipe. My grandmother never included it in her original salad but I love the burst of color and juicy crunch it brings. Every time I add those bright pieces I think of her saying pretty food tastes best.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to swap out cheddar for something milder like Monterey Jack or even a fresh cheese like mozzarella if that is what you have. Fold in diced ham or crispy bacon for a heartier dish or sliced hard boiled eggs to boost the protein for vegetarians. Try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter dressing it still tastes wonderful. Top with fresh herbs just before serving for more color and garden flavor I like parsley or dill.

Perfect Pairings

Irish pea salad loves hearty mains such as roasted lamb or beef but also helps brighten up simple grilled chicken or salmon. Serve with sandwiches or burgers at summer picnics people love the change from classic potato salad. I like to pair a cold glass of cider and thick slices of buttered soda bread with this for the most traditional Irish experience.

Storage Tips

Cover and refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days the flavors just get bolder but the texture still stays crisp. If preparing more than one day ahead mix in the cheese just before serving so it does not get too soft. This salad does not freeze because mayonnaise and vegetables lose texture after thawing so enjoy it fresh.

Chill the salad thoroughly before serving and add new herbs or vegetables based on what is in season. Serve well chilled for perfect taste and texture.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How can I customize an Irish pea salad?

Add crispy bacon, diced ham, or swap cheddar for mozzarella. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley boost flavor.

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, make it at least an hour in advance for the best flavor. Chill and stir before serving.

→ What is a good alternative to sour cream?

Greek yogurt works well, lending a lighter tang and creamy consistency.

→ Can I use fresh peas in place of frozen?

Fresh peas are great. Quickly blanch to retain their bright color and crisp bite.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Stir gently before serving.