Name: Lucky Black Eyed Pea Salad: 5-Minute Zesty Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can black-eyed peas (15 oz / 400 g), rinsed; 1 medium bell pepper, finely chopped; ½ red onion, finely diced; 2 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, chopped and seeded; 1 small cucumber, diced; ½ cup corn (canned, frozen, or fresh); ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or vinegar); 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or yellow); 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); Black pepper to taste

Black Eyed Pea Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh vegetables with the earthy flavor of black-eyed peas, all brought together by a zesty lemon dressing. Perfectly suited for any occasion, this salad is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also embodies a refreshing taste that is hard to resist. Rich in nutrients and flavor, it is a staple that I’ve grown to love, especially during New Year’s celebrations for good luck!

Why You’ll Love This Black Eyed Pea Salad

This Black Eyed Pea Salad recipe shines for multiple reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s packed with fresh ingredients that contribute to a healthy lifestyle, making it a healthy black-eyed pea salad option. Additionally, it offers versatility, as you can easily customize it based on your preferences, whether you prefer a vegetarian black-eyed pea salad or one enriched with proteins. This dish is also perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have nutritious meals ready throughout the week. Plus, it is ideal for potlucks or family gatherings, bringing a vibrant touch to your table.

Lucky Black Eyed Pea Salad: 5-Minute Zesty Recipe - Black Eyed Pea Salad - main visual representation

Ingredients for Black Eyed Pea Salad

Gather these items:

1 can black-eyed peas (15 oz / 400 g), rinsed
1 medium bell pepper, finely chopped
½ red onion, finely diced
2 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, chopped and seeded
1 small cucumber, diced
½ cup corn (canned, frozen, or fresh)
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice (or vinegar)
1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Black pepper to taste

How to Make Black Eyed Pea Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, honey, oregano, salt, and black pepper until smooth and emulsified.
Step 2: Add the rinsed black-eyed peas to the bowl with dressing and toss gently. Let sit while you prepare the vegetables to absorb flavor.
Step 3: Dice the bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and finely chop the parsley. Drain the corn if using canned or thawed.
Step 4: Add chopped vegetables and corn to the marinated peas. Mix until well combined and evenly coated with dressing.
Step 5: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Black Eyed Pea Salad

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for New Year’s luck.
Great for meal prep.
Refreshing vegan lunch option.
For added creaminess, consider making a black-eyed pea salad with avocado.
Experiment with different herbs, such as cilantro or basil, for a fresh twist.

Best Ways to Serve Black Eyed Pea Salad

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a standalone dish for a light lunch. You can also serve it at parties as an appetizer. It’s an excellent black-eyed pea salad for potluck events, where its vibrant colors will surely impress your guests.

How to Store and Reheat Black Eyed Pea Salad

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This cold black-eyed pea salad will keep well for up to three days. If you prefer it chilled, let it sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving again. This dish is perfect for meal prep, keeping your week healthy and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Eyed Pea Salad

What’s the secret to perfect Black Eyed Pea Salad?

The secret lies in fresh ingredients and allowing the salad to marinate. The longer it sits, the more flavor it absorbs, making it a perfect quick black-eyed pea salad.

Can I make Black Eyed Pea Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better when made ahead, as the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Black Eyed Pea Salad?

Be careful not to over-season your dressing. Start with less salt and adjust after mixing in the vegetables. This way, you can ensure a balanced flavor in your easy black-eyed pea salad.

Variations of Black Eyed Pea Salad You Can Try

There are many ways to customize your Southern black-eyed pea salad. You can add diced jalapeños for a kick, mix in some cooked quinoa for added protein, or include seasonal vegetables like zucchini. If you prefer a sweeter touch, adding diced mango or pineapple can elevate the flavor profile. Experiment with different dressings, as there are numerous black-eyed pea salad dressing options to explore!

For more information on the health benefits of black-eyed peas, check out this Healthline article.

For tips on meal prepping, visit EatingWell’s meal prep guide.

For a deeper dive into the cultural significance of black-eyed peas, see this Southern Living article.