Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch? Look no further! This vibrant pea and peanut salad is packed with flavor, protein, and nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking healthy food recipes. It's one of those simple recipes that delivers big on taste, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen peas (or 2 cups fresh peas, shelled)
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the peas: If using frozen peas, cook them according to package directions. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp, then immediately plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
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Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked peas, chopped peanuts, red onion, and cilantro.
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), cumin, salt, and pepper.
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Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the pea and peanut mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Serve: Serve the salad immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes fantastic both at room temperature and chilled.
Tips for the Best Pea & Peanut Salad:
- Roast your own peanuts: For a deeper, richer flavor, roast your own peanuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of lime juice, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper to your taste. If you prefer a spicier salad, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add some crunch: Toasted slivered almonds or sunflower seeds would also make a great addition to this salad for extra crunch.
- Make it a complete meal: Add some cooked quinoa or brown rice for a more filling and nutritious meal. Grilled chicken or tofu would also be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Spicy Pea & Peanut Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Pea & Peanut Salad: Substitute feta cheese for the peanuts and add some chopped cucumber and Kalamata olives.
- Curried Pea & Peanut Salad: Add 1/2 teaspoon of curry powder to the dressing for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 5-7 grams
This pea and peanut salad is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that's also healthy and incredibly flavorful. It’s a simple, delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights or a refreshing addition to your lunch routine. Enjoy!