Tired of the same old lunch routine? Craving a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious meal that's bursting with flavor? Then look no further! This vibrant pea and peanut salad is the perfect answer. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delightful blend of sweet peas, crunchy peanuts, and a zesty, tangy dressing. This easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a healthy side dish, or even a quick dinner idea. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Peas: If using frozen peas, thaw them completely before proceeding. You can do this quickly by placing them in a colander under cold running water.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the thawed peas, chopped peanuts, red onion, and cilantro.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pea and peanut mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated.
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Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pea and Peanut Salad:
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Roasting the Peanuts: For extra flavor and crunch, consider roasting your own peanuts. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned.
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Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder salad, omit them entirely.
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Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro adds a wonderful brightness to this salad. If you don’t have cilantro, you can substitute with chopped fresh parsley or mint.
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Add Protein: To make this salad even more substantial, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Variations:
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Spicy Peanut Salad: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a spicier kick.
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Creamy Peanut Salad: Add a tablespoon or two of peanut butter to the dressing for a richer, creamier texture.
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Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or cucumber.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The exact nutritional values will depend on the specific ingredients used. A general approximation would be around 250-300 calories per serving, with a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. This is just an estimate; using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients will give you a more accurate result.
This pea and peanut salad is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the ease of preparation! It's a great recipe to add to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. This simple, delicious dish is sure to become a new family favorite.