Easy Black-Eyed Pea Salad is a vibrant, protein-rich side dish that shines at barbecues, potlucks, and New Year’s Day gatherings. Ready in about 30 minutes of hands-on work plus an overnight chill, this colorful salad combines tender black-eyed peas with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Additional Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 30 mins
Servings: 8
Yield: 8 servings
Why You’ll Love This Easy Black-Eyed Pea Salad
- Quick prep, make-ahead convenience
- Nutritious and satisfying
- Versatile pairing
- Customizable ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 (15.5-ounce) cans black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prepare ingredients
Drain and rinse black-eyed peas to remove excess sodium. Chop the tomato, both bell peppers, red onion, celery, and parsley.
Step 2: Combine vegetables and peas
In a medium mixing bowl, combine black-eyed peas, chopped vegetables, and parsley. Gently toss to mix well.
Step 3: Make the vinaigrette
In a separate small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Toss and chill
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to enhance the flavor.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add-ins: Fresh corn, avocado, crumbled feta, bacon bits, or grilled chicken.
- Herb swaps: Try cilantro or basil instead of parsley.
- Spicy kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Serve with: Grilled meats, fish, or atop a bed of leafy greens.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute dressing and flavors.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 132
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 478mg
- Potassium: 328mg
- Vitamin C: 38mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Calcium: 33mg