Why You’ll Love Dublin Pea Salad Recipe

Dublin Pea Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings. It combines the crisp sweetness of peas with the creamy tang of a mayonnaise-based dressing, balanced by sharp cheddar cheese, crunchy bacon, and a hint of red onion. This salad is easy to make, bursting with flavor, and can be served as a side or a light lunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a refreshing twist to your usual salad rotation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups frozen peas, thawed
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and finely chopped red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (or more for best flavor)

Variations

Add herbs: Mix in fresh chopped dill or parsley for extra freshness.
Swap bacon: Use pancetta or smoked turkey bacon as a substitute.
Add crunch: Toss in some toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts.
Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt or sour cream in place of mayonnaise.
Add sweetness: Include halved cherry tomatoes or diced red bell peppers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best eaten fresh but can hold up well for a couple of days.
Reheating: This salad is served cold; do not heat.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas work wonderfully—just blanch them briefly in boiling water and cool before using.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Absolutely! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors develop.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if you have concerns.

Can I make this salad vegan?

You can substitute vegan mayonnaise and omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative.

How can I make the salad less creamy?

Reduce the amount of mayonnaise or replace part of it with sour cream or plain yogurt.

Can I add other vegetables?

Sure! Diced cucumbers, radishes, or bell peppers would all be great additions.

What can I serve this salad with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread.

Can I freeze Dublin Pea Salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the peas and dressing will change.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?

Drain any excess liquid from the thawed peas and avoid over-mixing after adding the dressing.

Can I substitute cheddar cheese?

Yes, you can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mild mozzarella for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Dublin Pea Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together sweet peas, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon in a creamy dressing. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any occasion—from potlucks to family dinners. With its fresh ingredients and balanced flavors, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Dublin Pea Salad

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Delight in the refreshing flavors of Dublin Pea Salad, a vibrant side dish featuring sweet green peas, crisp vegetables, and creamy Irish cheese, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 10–12
Category: Side Dish
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Irish-American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

For the Salad:
½ sweet onion, finely chopped
2 (12 oz) bags frozen peas, thawed
3 hard-boiled eggs, diced
5 sweet peppers, diced
1½ cups aged Irish cheese, shredded or diced
For the Dressing:
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet relish
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons spicy mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Notes

Soaking the onion in cold water mellows its sharpness for balanced flavor.
Use a sharp aged Irish cheese for richer taste.
Prepare the salad a few hours ahead; add cheese and dressing before serving to maintain freshness.