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Spring Pea Salad with Lemon Dressing

This fresh and vibrant salad highlights the sweet, crunchy flavor of freshly shelled peas, dressed lightly with lemon juice, zest, and olive oil. The peas are briefly boiled until just tender, then cooled in an ice bath to preserve their bright color and crisp texture, resulting in a simple, seasonal dish with a crisp bite and a zingy finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seasonal
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 liter water for boiling peas
  • 2 cups fresh green peas shelled
  • 1 piece lemon for zest and juice
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil for dressing
  • to taste flaky sea salt for seasoning
  • to taste freshly cracked black pepper for seasoning
  • a few leaves fresh mint or tarragon optional, finely chopped

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ice bath container

Method
 

  1. Bring a small saucepan filled with water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, adding a pinch of salt.
  2. Shell the fresh peas from their pods if needed, then add them to the boiling water. Cook for about 1.5 to 2 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender with a slight crunch.
  3. Quickly drain the peas and transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process and lock in their vibrant color. Let them sit for 2 minutes, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
  4. Zest the lemon first, then juice it into a small bowl. Whisk in the olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked pepper until the dressing is smooth and cohesive.
  5. Transfer the cooled peas to a large mixing bowl. Pour the lemon dressing over the peas and gently toss to coat evenly, ensuring all the peas are lightly dressed.
  6. Finely chop the herbs, if using, and sprinkle them over the salad. Taste and adjust with extra salt or lemon juice if needed.
  7. Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a cooler, more refreshing dish.
  8. Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a few turns of freshly cracked pepper. Serve immediately for the freshest texture and flavor.