| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 316 | 20g | 5g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 5g | 17g | 0.8g |
One of my favorite creations that reflects both my Texan roots and my love for vibrant, healthy dishes is the delightful Pea and Ham Salad. This bright, refreshing recipe, with its symphony of flavors and textures, is an absolute treat on the palate. Moreover, its simplicity and nutritional value make it a star attraction on both weeknight dinner tables and weekend garden parties. Pea and Ham Salad is my way of modernizing Southern Cuisine, adding a hint of the Mediterranean influence with ingredients like feta cheese and olive oil. Let me take you through why this recipe secures its special place in my heart.
Nutritional Highlights
The Pea and Ham Salad not only promises a zesty explosion of flavors but also packs a punch on the nutritional front. Green peas form the base of this recipe, offering a good dose of protein and fibre that promote digestion and leave you satiated for longer periods. Combined with the lean protein from ham, this salad is excellent for those following a high protein diet. The cherry tomatoes are not just there for their bursting sweetness; they also bring a wealth of vitamins A and C, adding to the antioxidant profile of this dish. Feta cheese and olive oil, on the other hand, provide healthy fats that are essential for various bodily functions. Overall, this recipe is a well-rounded dish that contributes towards a balanced diet.
Versatility at Its Best
What makes the Pea and Ham Salad stand out is its incredible versatility. While it’s a salad that’s splendid on its own, it also works amazingly well as a side dish to a wide range of mains. The fresh, tangy flavors can perfectly complement heavier dishes like roasted meats or barbecued dishes, making it an excellent addition for family barbecues or festive dinners. If you enjoy a good burger, you might want to try it with this salad as a refreshing side. With its vibrant colors and textures, this salad also works wonderfully well on a mezze platter, alongside your favorite dips and antipasti.
To draw a comparison, the Pea and Ham Salad might remind you of a classic Greek Salad due to its medley of bright veggies and feta cheese but with its unique addition of peas and ham, it creates an identity of its own. You can explore more similar salad recipes here.
Therefore, whether it’s for a casual family dinner, a picnic, or a fancy soirée, the Pea and Ham Salad is my go-to. I guarantee it will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen green peas
- 2 cups of cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Start by preparing the vegetables and ham for your salad. If you are using fresh peas, ensure they are shelled. If they are frozen, follow the thawing instructions on the bag. Dice your cooked ham into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half. Finely chop the red onion and fresh mint. Crumble the feta cheese.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the peas, diced ham, tomato halves, chopped onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix them together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step Three
In a separate, small bowl, prepare your dressing. Combining the chopped fresh mint, lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir until the ingredients are well integrated.
Step Four
Pour the dressing over the pea and ham mixture in the large bowl. Use salad tongs or a large spoon to toss the salad, making sure that the dressing is evenly distributed throughout.
Step Five
Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste. You can add more or less depending on your personal preference. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later. This salad makes a great side dish with any main entree, or can be eaten alone as a light meal.
