Arone H This Southern Black Eyed Pea Salad is a delightful mix of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors. With its colorful medley of black-eyed peas, corn, tomatoes, and cucumber tossed in a spiced vinaigrette, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare and versatile to serve. Enjoy it as a side dish, a light lunch, or as a salsa with your favorite corn chips.
Black-eyed peas are also a symbol of good luck, traditionally eaten in the South on New Year’s Day. But there’s no reason you can’t enjoy their unique flavor and hearty texture year-round with this easy recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Simple: Minimal prep time and a straightforward process.
- Healthy: Packed with fiber, protein, and fresh veggies.
- Smoky & Tangy Flavor: The vinaigrette elevates the dish with bold Southern-inspired spices.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after marinating in the fridge.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or salsa.
Ingredients Breakdown
Salad Base
- Black-Eyed Peas (3 cups): Cooked and cooled, they form the heart of this salad.
- Tip: Use canned black-eyed peas for convenience, but rinse and drain well.
- Corn (1 cup): Adds sweetness and crunch. Fresh, canned, or frozen corn works.
- Red Onion (½ cup): Provides a sharp and tangy flavor.
- Roma Tomatoes (2): Seeded and diced for a fresh, juicy element.
- Cucumber (1 cup): Seeded and diced for a refreshing crunch.
- Green Onions (3): Adds a mild, oniony flavor.
Dressing
- Apple Cider Vinegar (¼ cup): The base for the tangy vinaigrette.
- Lime Juice (1 lime): Brightens and balances the flavors.
- Sugar (2 tsp): Balances the acidity.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
- Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a subtle kick.
- Ground Cumin (1 ½ tsp): A warm, earthy spice that defines the flavor.
- Ground Coriander (¾ tsp): Complements the cumin with a citrusy undertone.
- Smoked Paprika (¾ tsp): Adds a smoky depth.
- Hot Sauce (a few dashes): Optional, adjust to your heat preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook or rinse canned black-eyed peas and drain well.
- Dice tomatoes and cucumber, chop green onions and red onion, and measure the corn.
- Combine the black-eyed peas, corn, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and green onions in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, lime juice, sugar, salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and hot sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste.
3. Combine and Marinate
- Pour the dressing over the black-eyed pea mixture.
- Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve
- Serve the salad cold as a side dish, light lunch, or salsa with corn chips.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
- Marinate: Don’t skip the chilling time! It’s essential for the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Customizations:
- Add diced bell peppers, avocado, or jalapeños for more flavor and texture.
- Swap corn with roasted sweet corn for a smoky twist.
- Use red wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a slightly different tang.
- Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may settle.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood for a complete meal.
- Use as a topping for tacos, burrito bowls, or wraps.
- Serve as a salsa with tortilla chips for a party snack.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 148 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 396mg
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 7g
Variations to Try
- Tex-Mex Version: Add black beans, diced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Mediterranean Twist: Swap smoked paprika with sumac, and add crumbled feta and olives.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the hot sauce and add diced fresh chilies.
Conclusion
This Southern Black Eyed Pea Salad is a versatile, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re bringing it to a barbecue, serving it as a light lunch, or enjoying it as a snack, its smoky-spicy vinaigrette and colorful mix of veggies will keep you coming back for more.
Try it out and enjoy the compliments!
