Introduction
This delightful Sea Island Red Peas with Celery Leaf Salad brings together the rich flavors of traditional Southern cooking and fresh, vibrant vegetables. A dish that honors its roots while appealing to modern palates, it’s a perfect blend of nutritious ingredients and heartwarming simplicity.
Tips for this recipe
To achieve the best results with this peas-based salad, ensure that the red peas are well rinsed but not fully cooked before pureeing them to a smooth consistency. The freshness of the celery leaves and the crunch they add is paramount; thus, use only the inner stalks for chopping.
Why you will love this recipe
This peas salad isn’t just about taste—it’s a celebration of texture and color that invites everyone to the table. The combination of creamy peas with fresh, zesty celery leaf adds an unexpected yet delightful twist on traditional Southern fare. It promises a comforting meal full of flavors without being overly complex or heavy.
Ingredients
2 cups dried Sea Island red peas or black-eyed peas, 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more, 2 garlic cloves, 6 sprigs thyme, 1 fresh bay leaf, 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling, 1/2 cup finely chopped celery and celery leaves from inner stalks, 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon coriander seeds, 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives, 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest.
Adviced equipments
– Meat Grinder/Meat Chopper (for grinding whole peas)
– Kitchen Blender (to puree salad ingredients if needed)
– Salad Bowl/Serving Platter (for preparing and serving the salad)
– Cutting Board (essential for chopping vegetables and herbs)
– Chef’s Knife (critical for various prep tasks)
– Salad Server/Spatula (useful for mixing and serving the salad)
– Mixing Bowl/Salad Bowl (to mix dressings or prepare portions of the salad)
– Colander (for rinsing vegetables like celery leaves)
– Measuring Cups and Spoons (for precise measurements of ingredients)
– Paper Towels/Kitchen Paper (for clean-up purposes)
History of the recipe
The Sea Island Red Peas with Celery Leaf Salad is a cherished Southern dish that has evolved over generations. Originally, this salad would have been served during harvest times when peas and celery were readily available. Over time, it became popular in coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina, where sea Island red peas are native. These recipes often reflect the diverse cultural influences within these areas and the simplicity that is a hallmark of Southern cooking.
Fun facts about this recipe
Beyond its rich history, the Sea Island Red Peas with Celery Leaf Salad highlights several unique aspects: it’s a dish that embodies sustainability by making use of all parts of vegetables (such as using celery leaves). The addition of red bell peppers and thyme adds an unexpected but harmonious blend of flavors. Additionally, the recipe is known for its hearty yet refreshing taste—perfect for any meal or gathering where a memorable dish can spark conversation about Southern heritage.
