Aileen's Crunchy Pea Salad 🥗🌱

This vibrant and refreshing salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a delightful side dish. With its crunchy textures and creamy dressing, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a great option for both weekday meals and special occasions!

Ingredients

Salad Mixture

• 1 (10 oz) package frozen baby peas, thawed
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup chopped fresh cauliflower
• ½ cup diced green onion
• 1 cup cashews (or try roasted for added flavor!)

Dressing

• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup prepared ranch dressing

Optional Garnish

• Crispy bacon bits (for a savory crunch)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, diced celery, chopped cauliflower, green onion, and cashews.

🥄 Remember to thaw the peas completely for the best texture! You can quickly thaw them in warm water if you're short on time.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and ranch dressing until well combined.

3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

4. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Just before serving, you can garnish with crispy bacon bits for that extra indulgent touch!

🥬 Serving tip: Serve this salad in individual cups or bowls for a delightful presentation at gatherings!

Variations

• Nut-free: Omit the cashews or replace them with sunflower seeds for that crunch without the nuts.
• Herby: Add chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh twist!
• Creamy Vegan Option: Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt and use a vegan ranch dressing.
• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for added protein and to make it a complete meal.

Enjoy this delightful Crunchy Pea Salad, and let the flavors burst in every bite! 🌟🥗