Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Salad: A Cozy Celebration of Flavor

Every time the seasons shift, I can’t help but reminisce about the comforting dishes that have warmed our family table. Some recipes hold a special nostalgia, transporting us back to sun-drenched picnics or lively backyard gatherings. One such dish is my Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Salad, a vibrant medley of fresh ingredients that sings with bright colors and bold flavors!

This refreshing, protein-packed salad has become a staple in my household, especially during those beautiful, lazy summer days when we crave something light yet fulfilling. You can toss it together in minutes, making it an ideal recipe for an easy weeknight dinner or a potluck BBQ. Plus, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser! This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a delicious salad ready to serve, perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
No Cooking Required: There’s nothing more inviting than a no-cook recipe, especially when it’s packed with fresh, colorful ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of spicy jalapeños, sweet cherry tomatoes, and zesty onion creates a flavor symphony that everyone will love.
Nutritious and Filling: Black-eyed peas are not only packed with protein, but they also boast dietary fiber, making this salad both satisfying and healthy.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad stores beautifully, making it ideal for make-ahead lunches or delicious leftovers throughout the week!

What You’ll Need

To create this delightful Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Salad, gather these simple ingredients:

1 can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, diced
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s make it together! Here’s how you can whip up this dazzling salad in no time:

In a large bowl, combine the drained black-eyed peas, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, minced jalapeño, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Stir gently to allow the colors to blend.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your personal taste.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, tossing everything together until the ingredients are well coated and the dressing is evenly distributed.
For the best flavor, let the salad sit at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together perfectly.
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, and watch your friends and family savor every bite!

Delicious Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative and switch up this salad with some fun twists:

Add Crunch: Toss in a handful of toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture that complements the tender peas.
Go Creamy: For a zesty twist, add a dollop of creamy avocado dressing or mix in some diced avocado right before serving for a rich, indulgent flavor.
Spice it Up: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.
Fresh Fruits: Consider adding diced mango or finely chopped apple for a sweet contrast that balances the spicy flavors beautifully.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make Ahead: This salad stays fresh in the fridge for up to four days! Make it a day ahead for the flavors to deepen and meld even better.
Mix and Match: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have. Different beans, fresh herbs, or seasonal vegetables work perfectly here!
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This hearty salad will still taste great the next day!

Nutrition Information per Serving

Serving Size: Approximately 1/2 cup
Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 2g
Fat: 4g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 230mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Let the flavors develop in the refrigerator for an even tastier dish.

Can I use different ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to use other beans or fresh veggies that you have on hand, such as corn or bell peppers.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should stay fresh for up to four days.

How long does it last?
This Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Salad is best enjoyed within four days, though it typically tastes even better the next day!

A Cozy Closing Note

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a fresh salad made with love and care. This Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Salad not only looks stunning but delivers a bold flavor punch that is simply unforgettable. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, this recipe is bound to bring smiles and satisfaction.

Save this Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Salad to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking!