Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil.
Add the minced garlic and season with a little salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning. If you’d like more brightness, add another small splash of lemon juice. For a slightly sweeter dressing, add a tiny bit more honey.
Step 5: Combine the Salad
Add the cooled peas and cheddar to the bowl containing the lettuce and vegetables.
Pour the dressing over the salad gradually rather than adding it all at once. Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are lightly coated.
Be careful not to overmix. The lettuce should remain crisp, and the cheddar should stay in distinct pieces.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Give the salad a taste before serving.
Add another pinch of salt or black pepper if needed. If the flavors seem too rich, a little extra lemon juice can brighten the salad.
If you prefer a creamier salad, add a little more dressing.
Step 7: Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for about 15–20 minutes before serving.
This short resting period allows the flavors to come together while keeping the lettuce pleasantly crisp.
If you’re preparing the salad several hours ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss it with the salad shortly before serving.
Helpful Tips for the Best Results
Dry the lettuce well. A salad spinner is particularly useful, but you can also gently pat the leaves dry with clean kitchen towels.
Don’t overcook the peas. They should remain bright green and retain some texture rather than becoming soft and mushy.
Choose a flavorful cheddar. Irish cheddar provides a distinctive savory character that works especially well with sweet peas.
Dress just before serving. If the salad will sit for an extended period, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Cut everything into similar bite-sized pieces. This makes every forkful more balanced and easier to eat.
Easy Variations
You can customize this salad while keeping its basic character intact.
For extra crunch, add toasted sunflower seeds, chopped walnuts, or sliced almonds.
For a heartier version, add chopped hard-boiled eggs or cooked bacon.
Fresh herbs such as chives, dill, or mint can also bring a different dimension to the salad.
For a lighter dressing, replace some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
You can also add a handful of halved cherry tomatoes for extra color and freshness.
Make-Ahead Instructions
This salad is easy to prepare ahead of time, but a little planning will help preserve its texture.
Prepare the peas, chop the vegetables, cube the cheese, and make the dressing separately. Store everything covered in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to serve, combine the ingredients and add the dressing. Toss gently and garnish with a little extra cheddar and parsley.
This approach keeps the lettuce crisp instead of allowing it to soften while sitting in the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Kerrygold Irish Cheddar Pea & Lettuce Salad works particularly well alongside grilled chicken, roasted meats, sandwiches, burgers, or baked potatoes.
It also makes a lovely addition to a casual buffet because its bright green peas and creamy cheddar give the dish plenty of visual appeal without requiring elaborate preparation.
For a spring-inspired meal, serve it with crusty bread and a simple roasted chicken. For a summer gathering, pair it with grilled vegetables and your favorite barbecue dishes.
Final Thoughts
Kerrygold Irish Cheddar Pea & Lettuce Salad proves that a simple salad can still feel special. The crisp lettuce and fresh peas provide a refreshing foundation, while the rich Irish cheddar gives the dish satisfying depth. A creamy, lemony dressing brings everything together without overpowering the main ingredients.
With just a handful of everyday ingredients and a few straightforward steps, this salad is an easy recipe to keep in your collection whenever you want something fresh, colorful, and flavorful.
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