Busy Day Black-Eyed Pea Salad
When time is of the essence but the craving for soulful flavors persists, turn to this Busy Day Black-Eyed Pea Salad. Packed with vibrant colors, wholesome ingredients, and a zesty vinaigrette, this quick and easy salad is the perfect solution for busy lives without compromising on taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Feta cheese for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas:
- If using canned black-eyed peas, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. If using dried peas, cook them according to the package instructions until tender.
- Chop and Dice:
- In a large bowl, combine the black-eyed peas with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and fresh cilantro. Toss the ingredients together to create a colorful medley.
- Prepare the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.
- Combine and Toss:
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss the salad to ensure even coating with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill and Marinate:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the taste and texture of the salad.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Just before serving, sprinkle crumbled Feta cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Busy Day Black-Eyed Pea Salad chilled, either as a refreshing side dish or a light meal on its own. Pair it with crusty bread or as a complement to grilled proteins for a complete soulful experience.
Pro Tips:
- Add Heat:
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the vinaigrette.
- Make It Ahead:
- This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors often intensify as it sits.
With the Busy Day Black-Eyed Pea Salad, you’ll have a quick, delicious, and soulful dish ready to bring comfort to even the busiest of days. Enjoy the simplicity and bold flavors of this easy soul food recipe!
