When spring arrives and vibrant greens burst forth at the farmers’ market, I can’t help but be drawn in by the enticing sight of fresh sugar snap peas. The moment I bring them home, I picture a delightful salad that celebrates their crispness. This Sugar Snap Pea Salad with Radishes, Feta, and Arugula is my go-to recipe, packed with flavor and just the right crunch.
The subtle sweetness of the snap peas pairs beautifully with the peppery bite of radishes and the creamy tang of feta. Toss in some peppery arugula and a zesty dressing that sings with fresh lemon, and you’ve got a dish that feels like sunshine on a plate. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a refreshing side dish at your next gathering, this salad is not just easy to prepare—it’s also a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to anyone who takes a bite. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have you looking forward to every meal!
Why is Sugar Snap Pea Salad a must-try?
Bright, Fresh Ingredients: This salad shines with the crispness of fresh sugar snap peas and radishes, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have a stunning dish ready to impress.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a light lunch or serve it alongside your favorite grilled meats for a vibrant side.
Health Packed: Loaded with nutrients and flavor, it’s a guilt-free indulgence you can savor anytime.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a picnic or dinner party, this colorful salad will appeal to everyone—and have them asking for seconds!
Sugar Snap Pea Salad Ingredients
• A delightful mix for the perfect salad!
For the Dressing
- Garlic clove – imparts a wonderful aromatic flavor as it marinates in the dressing.
- Lemon juice – adds a zesty brightness that elevates the entire salad.
- Red wine vinegar – gives a tangy depth that’s perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the peas.
- Dijon mustard – brings an extra layer of spice and creaminess to your dressing.
- Kosher salt – enhances all the flavors in your wash of greens.
- Extra virgin olive oil – provides richness and smoothness, tying the flavors together.
- Black pepper – adds a hint of warmth and complements the other ingredients beautifully.
For the Salad
- Sugar snap peas – the star of the dish, offering a delightful crunch with natural sweetness.
- Radishes – sliced thin for a peppery bite that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet peas.
- Baby arugula – adds a peppery flavor and vibrant color that brightens up the dish.
- Feta cheese – creamy and tangy, it adds richness and depth to each bite.
This Sugar Snap Pea Salad is not just fresh and colorful; it’s a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
How to Make Sugar Snap Pea Salad
-
Combine the dressing ingredients in a jar or large measuring cup: garlic clove, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Whisk in the olive oil until emulsified, then season with black pepper and additional salt to taste. Allow the garlic to marinate for a few minutes while you prepare the salad.
-
Toss together the sugar snap peas, sliced radishes, arugula, and crumbled feta in a large bowl. Mix gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly distributed and the colors pop vibrantly.
-
Remove the garlic clove from the dressing and discard it. Pour two-thirds of the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Taste it and add more dressing if desired for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the freshness!
Optional: Garnish with extra feta or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Sugar Snap Pea Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance by combining the garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, dijon mustard, and oil, then refrigerating it (this allows the flavors to meld beautifully). The salad components, especially the sugar snap peas and radishes, can be chopped and stored separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep them dry to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the prepped veggies with the dressing and crumbled feta, and you’ll enjoy a fresh, vibrant salad that’s just as delicious as if it were made on the spot!
What to Serve with Sugar Snap Pea Salad?
Elevate your meal with vibrant accompaniments that complement this burst of freshness perfectly.
-
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky grilled chicken adds heartiness and pairs well with the salad’s crispness and tangy flavors.
-
Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, quinoa pilaf offers a satisfying texture that balances the freshness of the salad while adding nutritional value.
-
Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for savoring every last drop of dressing, enhancing the overall dining experience.
-
Roasted Salmon: Rich and flavorful, roasted salmon brings a beautiful contrast to the bright ingredients in the salad, making a delightful combination.
-
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrus notes and adds a refreshing touch to your meal.
-
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate with its bright, cold, and refreshing flavor, echoing the salad’s crisp nature.
With these pairings, your table will be brimming with a refreshing and satisfying meal that delights the senses!
How to Store and Freeze Sugar Snap Pea Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad as the texture of the snap peas and arugula will suffer once thawed.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. If desired, let it come to room temperature for a more pleasant experience.
Prep Ahead: If you’re making it ahead, prepare the dressing and chop the veggies, but combine them just before serving for maximum freshness!
Expert Tips for Sugar Snap Pea Salad
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest sugar snap peas and radishes you can find. This enhances the salad’s flavor and crunchiness.
- Marinate Wisely: Let the garlic marinate in the dressing for at least 5 minutes for maximum flavor, but don’t skip this step!
- Dressing Balance: Taste your dressing before adding it all to the salad. A little more salt or lemon juice can make a big difference!
- Texture Matters: Slice radishes thinly for a perfect bite. Thick slices can overwhelm the salad and mask the delicate flavors.
- Serve Immediately: This Sugar Snap Pea Salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve right after tossing to keep the ingredients crisp and vibrant!
Sugar Snap Pea Salad Variations
Customize this delightful salad to fit your tastes and dietary needs!
- Vegan: Substitute feta with crumbled tofu or avocado for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a lovely kick of heat in every bite.
- Nutty Twist: Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture that also boosts the nutritional profile.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, basil, or cilantro for an aromatic lift that will brighten the salad even more.
- Fruit Addition: Add sliced strawberries or mandarin oranges for a sweet, juicy contrast that complements the crisp veggies.
- Grain Boost: Combine with cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier salad that turns it into a filling main dish.
- Creamy Dressing: Swap the vinaigrette for a creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt for added richness and tang.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try a sprinkle of goat cheese or nutritional yeast for a different flavor profile that still satisfies.
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these variations to find your perfect flavor balance!
Sugar Snap Pea Salad with Radishes, Feta and Arugula Recipe FAQs
Which sugar snap peas are the best to use?
Absolutely! Look for sugar snap peas that are bright green, crisp, and firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles as these might indicate they are stale.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store leftover Sugar Snap Pea Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again to maintain the salad’s crunchiness.
Can I freeze the Sugar Snap Pea Salad?
I don’t recommend freezing this salad. The texture of the snap peas and arugula will change drastically as they thaw, becoming mushy rather than crisp. Instead, prepare it fresh or store it in the fridge if you plan to enjoy it soon.
What should I do if the dressing is too salty?
Very! If you find the dressing too salty, try adding a bit more lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to balance it out. You can also increase the amount of olive oil to dilute the saltiness, giving it a richer consistency while keeping that zesty flavor.
Is this salad suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Sugar Snap Pea Salad is adaptable. For a vegan version, simply omit the feta or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always check for allergies, especially with ingredients like feta, as it contains dairy.
Sugar Snap Pea Salad with Feta for a Fresh Flavor Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the dressing ingredients in a jar or large measuring cup: garlic, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and kosher salt. Whisk in the olive oil until emulsified, then season with black pepper and additional salt to taste.
- Allow the garlic to marinate for a few minutes while you prepare the salad.
- Toss together the sugar snap peas, sliced radishes, arugula, and crumbled feta in a large bowl. Mix gently to combine.
- Remove the garlic clove from the dressing and discard it. Pour two-thirds of the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Taste it and add more dressing if desired for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!