Eat Fresh and Light with a Spring Pea and Herb Salad

Springtime is a season of new beginnings, new growth, and new flavors. After a long winter of heavy soups and casseroles, it's time to put a fresh and light twist on our meals. One way to do that is with a spring pea and herb salad. This dish is bursting with color, flavor, and nutrition. The sweetness of sugar snap peas meets the zestiness of lemon juice, the creaminess of feta cheese balances the freshness of mint and basil leaves, and the crunchy texture of radishes contrasts with the softness of pea shoots. If you're looking for a recipe that is easy, healthy, and delicious, look no further.

To make this salad at home, start by washing and trimming one cup of fresh sugar snap peas. Blanch them in boiling water for about two minutes, then rinse them in cold water and pat them dry. This will help to preserve their bright green color and their crispness. Trim off any stems or undesirable parts of the pea.

In a small bowl, whisk together two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, one tablespoon of whole grain Dijon mustard, a pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper, and 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil. This will be the dressing that brings all the flavors of the salad together.

Next, thinly slice two large watermelon radishes and set them aside. These radishes are a little sweeter and milder than regular radishes, and their pink and green hues add a pop of color to the dish.

In a large mixing bowl, combine two cups of fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves and tender stems, one cup of fresh pea shoots (optional), 1/2 cup of torn basil leaves, and 1/2 cup of fresh mint leaves. These herbs will provide a refreshing aroma and a lot of nutrients, such as Vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants.

Add the blanched sugar snap peas, the sliced watermelon radishes, and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese to the mixing bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the ingredients and toss them gently with your hands or tongs. You can adjust the amount of dressing to your liking, but remember that less is more when it comes to salads.

To finish the salad, sprinkle 1/4 cup of shaved Stella Parmesan cheese on top of it. This cheese has a nutty and salty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures in every bite.

Blog Introduction Paragraph: Spring is the season of fresh produce and vibrant colors, and what better way to welcome it than with a delicious salad? This spring pea and herb salad is not only healthy and nutritious, but it's also bursting with flavor and texture. The sugar snap peas provide crunch, while the radishes add a spicy kick. The fresh herbs and greens add a zesty freshness, and the feta and Parmesan cheese add a salty and savory element. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner. It's easy to make at home, so let's get started!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh sugar snap peas

• 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice (2-3 large lemons)

• 1 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard

• Pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 large watermelon radishes, thinly sliced

• 2 cups fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

• 1 cup fresh pea shoots (optional)

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 cup shaved Stella Parmesan Cheese

Instructions:

• Begin by blanching the sugar snap peas in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender. Then transfer them immediately to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

• In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until the mixture emulsifies.

• In a large bowl, combine the blanched sugar snap peas, sliced watermelon radishes, parsley, pea shoots (if using), basil, and mint. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat.

• Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and shaved Parmesan cheese over the top and serve immediately.

This spring pea and herb salad is a perfect way to welcome the new season and to enjoy the fresh, seasonal produce at its best. It's a healthy and delicious dish that is easy to make at home and can be customized to your tastes. The combination of crunchy sugar snap peas, spicy radishes, and zesty herbs is a flavor and texture explosion in your mouth. The dressing ties everything together with its tanginess and emulsification. The feta and Parmesan cheese add a salty and savory note that balances everything out. So, give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out for you!

Creating a spring pea and herb salad is a breeze, and the rewards are endless. You will get a boost of energy from the fresh and wholesome ingredients, and you will impress yourself and your guests with your culinary skills. This salad is versatile, too. You can add or substitute other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocados. You can also swap the feta cheese for goat cheese, or skip the cheese altogether to make the salad vegan. Remember to use the best quality and freshest ingredients that you can find, and enjoy the magic of springtime on your plate. Support your local farmer at the farmers' market or grow your very own herb garden for maximum freshness!