| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 90 | 3g | 0.5g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 3g | 2g | 0.2g |
Every once in a while, a recipe comes along that perfectly balances the harmonious blend of flavors from diverse culinary traditions. The Sweet and Spicy Snap Peas Salad is one such culinary delight. The salad is a beautiful medley of fresh vegetables and fruits, bringing a twist to traditional Southern and West African flavors—a testament to my Afro-Southern roots.
A Symphony of Flavors
What I adore about the Sweet and Spicy Snap Peas Salad is its delightful contrast of textures and tastes. The crunchiness of the sugar snap peas paired with the sweetness of strawberries and mango creates a heavenly bite. Adding slices of red bell pepper and a touch of jalapeño not only adds color but also layers the dish with sweet and spicy nuances. The finishing touch of fresh lime juice and a drizzle of honey brings it all together, creating a salad that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in appearance.
Health Benefits in Every Bite
This salad is not only a feast for the senses but also a boon for your health. Sugar snap peas are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, aiding digestion and improving heart health. Strawberries and mangoes are packed with vital nutrients, including Vitamin C and A, essential for a healthy immune system and glowing skin. The red bell pepper adds a dose of Vitamin B6 and folate, while the jalapeño brings capsaicin to boost metabolism. Lastly, cilantro and lime juice add a refreshing zest, making the salad not just delicious but nutrient-dense.
If you are fond of dishes like Sugar Snap Pea and Strawberry Salad or enjoy the tropical flair of Mango Black Bean Salad, you will find that this Sweet and Spicy Snap Peas Salad hits all the right notes. It can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing appetizer or paired beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.
The versatility of this salad cannot be overstated. You can easily adjust the heat level by choosing whether to include the jalapeño seeds, making it kid-friendly or as fiery as you like. Hosting a summer barbecue? This salad can be a star side dish, complementing a variety of mains from fried chicken to grilled shrimp.
Incorporating both Southern and West African elements, as well as fresh, vibrant produce, this salad encapsulates why I love cooking and sharing recipes. It’s a dish that brings people together, a conversation starter that brightens any table it graces.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups sugar snap peas, trimmed
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 1 cup diced mango
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Method
Step One
Blanch the sugar snap peas in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched sugar snap peas, sliced strawberries, diced mango, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, finely chopped jalapeño, and fresh cilantro.
Step Three
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step Four
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step Five
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
