There’s something nostalgic and deeply comforting about a chilled pea salad.
Growing up, this was the kind of dish that always showed up at summer BBQs or potlucks.
But this version? It has a twist I absolutely adore—aged Irish cheese.
Why I Love This Recipe
Bursting with freshness from peas, peppers, and sweet onions.
The bold flavor of aged Irish cheese adds a unique richness.
The dressing is creamy, tangy, and full of personality.
Comes together in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy days!
Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or just a chilled side for grilled mains.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Frozen peas – thawed and sweet, they form the base.
Hard-boiled eggs – add creaminess and protein.
Sweet peppers – for a crisp texture and color pop.
Aged Irish cheese – rich and nutty, absolutely worth it.
Sweet onion – soaked in water to mellow its bite.
Homemade dressing – mayo, relish, spicy mustard, and thyme bring it all together.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Soak the chopped onion in cold water to remove bitterness.
Make it ahead—the flavors get even better after chilling.
Shred the cheese yourself for a creamier texture (pre-shredded tends to dry out).
Taste the dressing before mixing in and adjust salt or mustard if needed.
How to Make Sweet Pea Salad with Irish Cheese
Step 1. Prep the Onion
Finely chop ½ sweet onion and place it in a bowl of cold water.
Let it soak while preparing the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2. Mix the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine thawed peas, diced hard-boiled eggs, chopped sweet peppers, and shredded or diced aged Irish cheese.
Step 3. Add the Onion
Drain the soaked onions and add them to the salad.
Toss gently to combine.
Step 4. Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet relish, salt, spicy mustard, and dried thyme until smooth.
Step 5. Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
What to Serve It With
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pulled pork sandwiches, or baked chicken.
It also works great as part of a picnic spread with deviled eggs and potato salad.
Variations / Substitutions
Use shredded cheddar or gouda if Irish cheese isn’t available.
Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky crunch.
Swap sweet peppers for diced radishes for a peppery twist.
For a tangier dressing, mix in a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving if any separation occurs.
Not suitable for freezing due to the creamy dressing.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It’s even better when made a few hours or a day in advance.
Do I have to thaw the peas first?
Yes, otherwise they’ll water down the salad and won’t absorb flavor well.
Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?
You can, but they’re softer and may not hold their shape as well.
Is the onion too strong in this salad?
Soaking the onion in cold water removes most of the harsh bite.
Can I substitute the mayo?
You can try Greek yogurt or sour cream, though it will alter the flavor.
What if I don’t have spicy mustard?
Dijon or yellow mustard can work too—just adjust to taste.
How can I make it more filling?
Add diced cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Pea Salad with Irish Cheese brings together texture, flavor, and freshness in every bite.
It’s one of those side dishes that steals the spotlight—bright, creamy, and surprisingly satisfying.
Next time you’re looking for a quick dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh, give this one a try.
It just might become your new summer favorite.
