Introduction to Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
As the days grow warmer and the flowers bloom, I find myself craving something fresh and vibrant. That’s where my Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette comes in! This delightful dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with wholesome grains, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a celebration of spring on your plate. Trust me, it’s a dish that will brighten your day!
Why You’ll Love This Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
This Spring Grain Salad is a true gem for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s quick to whip up, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The vibrant flavors of fresh peas and mint dance together, creating a taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner. You’ll love how it brightens your table and your mood!
Ingredients for Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked grains: Choose from quinoa, farro, or barley. These grains provide a hearty base and are packed with nutrients.
- Fresh peas: You can use fresh peas for that sweet crunch or frozen peas that have been thawed. Both options work beautifully!
- Fresh mint leaves: Mint adds a refreshing burst of flavor. It’s like spring in your mouth!
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved for sweetness and color, they brighten up the salad and add a juicy pop.
- Cucumber: Diced cucumber brings a crisp texture and a cool contrast to the other ingredients.
- Red onion: Finely chopped, it adds a bit of zing. If you prefer a milder taste, soak it in cold water for a few minutes.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta is optional but adds a creamy, tangy element. For a vegan option, simply leave it out.
- Olive oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for the vinaigrette, bringing richness and depth.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the salad and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Dijon mustard: This adds a subtle kick to the vinaigrette, enhancing the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they help to elevate all the flavors in the salad.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Enjoy the process of gathering these fresh ingredients, as they are the heart of this vibrant dish!
How to Make Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a vibrant dish that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, start by adding your cooked grains. I love using quinoa for its nutty flavor, but farro or barley work just as well. Next, toss in the fresh peas, chopped mint leaves, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and finely chopped red onion. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it in now. This colorful mix is the heart of your salad, so take a moment to admire it!
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. This is where the magic happens! The lemon juice adds brightness, while the mustard gives it a delightful kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I always taste my vinaigrette before adding it to the salad. Adjust the seasoning if needed; it should be zesty and refreshing!
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Now, pour the vinaigrette over your salad base. Gently toss everything together until the grains and veggies are well coated. Be careful not to mash the ingredients; you want to keep that lovely texture. The colors should blend beautifully, and the aroma will be simply irresistible!
Step 4: Serve or Chill
Your Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette is ready to shine! You can serve it immediately for a fresh crunch, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delicious. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save on cooking time.
- Use seasonal vegetables for the freshest flavors and colors.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it enhances the taste!
- Adjust the vinaigrette to your taste; add more lemon for extra zing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all your ingredients. A salad bowl works too!
- Small bowl: Ideal for whisking the vinaigrette. A mason jar can also do the trick!
- Whisk or fork: Use either to mix the vinaigrette. A fork is handy if you don’t have a whisk.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping veggies and herbs.
Variations
- Grain Swap: Try using brown rice or millet instead of quinoa, farro, or barley for a different texture.
- Herb Mix: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a unique flavor twist.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts for added crunch and healthy fats.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Spring Grain Salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside crusty bread or pita for a satisfying crunch.
- For drinks, a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the salad beautifully.
- Present in a large bowl for a family-style meal or in individual servings for a more elegant touch.
FAQs about Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
What grains work best for this salad?
I love using quinoa for its nutty flavor, but farro and barley are fantastic options too. Each grain brings its unique texture and taste, so feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Can I substitute the mint?
Of course! If mint isn’t your thing, you can use fresh basil or parsley instead. Each herb will give the salad a different twist, keeping it exciting every time you make it.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
How long will leftovers last?
Your salad will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to three days. Just remember that the longer it sits, the softer the veggies may become, so enjoy it while it’s at its best!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette is like capturing a little piece of spring on your plate. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors bring joy to any meal, making it a delightful addition to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with family, this salad is sure to spark smiles and compliments. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, fitting perfectly into our busy lives. So, roll up your sleeves, gather those fresh ingredients, and let this salad brighten your day. You deserve a little taste of spring!
Spring Grain Salad with Peas, Mint, and Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette is a refreshing delight!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant salad featuring grains, fresh peas, mint, and a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked grains (quinoa, farro, or barley)
- 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked grains, peas, mint, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute any grains you prefer.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg