Description
Creamy Potato & Pea Salad
Ingredients
1.5 lbs baby red potatoes (halved)
1 cup fresh or frozen peas
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tbsp white vinegar
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
Directions
Cook the potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the halved baby potatoes and cook for 12-15 minutes or until fork-tender.
Blanch the peas: In the last 2 minutes of boiling the potatoes, add the peas to the pot. Drain everything and rinse under cold water to cool.
Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine: Add the cooked potatoes and peas to the bowl. Toss gently to coat with the dressing.
Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and chopped parsley over the top. Toss again lightly and serve immediately or chill for later!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 210 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof salad. First, ensure your potatoes are cut into uniform, bite-sized halves for even cooking. When boiling, start with cold, well-salted water. After adding the potatoes, set a timer for 10 minutes before checking for doneness. For the peas, using frozen is perfectly fine—just add them directly to the pot during the final 2 minutes. The quick blanching preserves their bright color and crisp-tender bite. When making the dressing, whisk the mayonnaise, Dijon, and vinegar thoroughly before adding the dry seasonings to prevent clumping.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in many settings. For a classic picnic or barbecue, serve it alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or veggie skewers. To elevate a weeknight dinner, pair it with a simple baked salmon fillet or a hearty quiche. For a more substantial vegetarian meal, consider serving it on a bed of fresh arugula with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. It also makes an excellent filling for a wrap with some added spinach or kale.
How-to Summary
In short, this salad comes together in three key stages: Cook the potatoes and peas together in one pot, whisk a simple creamy Dijon dressing in your serving bowl, then combine everything and finish with Parmesan and parsley. The entire process takes about 25 minutes of active time for a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely. For best flavor, prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, though you may want to add an extra sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise? For a lighter version, substitute full-fat plain Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free option, a vegan mayonnaise works perfectly.
My salad seems dry after chilling. What happened? Potatoes can absorb dressing as they sit. Simply stir in an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash of vinegar to refresh it before serving.
Can I use a different type of potato? Yes. Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent alternative, offering a buttery texture. Avoid russet potatoes, as they can become too mealy.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan? Easily. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and ensure your mayonnaise is vegan-friendly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the potatoes, as they will turn mushy and not hold their shape when tossed. Do not skip rinsing the cooked potatoes and peas under cold water; this stops the cooking process and prevents a gummy texture. Resist the urge to stir the salad too vigorously after adding the Parmesan and parsley—a gentle fold maintains texture and distributes the ingredients without crushing the potatoes.
Conclusion
This Creamy Potato & Pea Salad is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying dish. Its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors, combined with a pleasing texture, makes it a reliable choice for any occasion. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try for your next gathering or family meal.