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Fresh Spring Pea and Crispy Bacon Salad

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A quick and easy salad combining the crispiness of bacon with the sweet snap of fresh peas, tossed in a light, tangy dressing. Perfect for a healthy homemade lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (300 grams) fresh or frozen peas
  • 6 strips (about 150 grams) thick-cut bacon
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • A small handful chopped fresh mint leaves
  • 3 cups (90 grams) baby arugula or mixed greens
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts
  • Optional: crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups (300g) of fresh or frozen peas and blanch for 1-2 minutes until bright green and just tender. Immediately drain and plunge into a bowl of ice water to stop cooking and preserve color. Drain again and set aside.
  2. While peas are cooling, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 6 thick-cut bacon strips and cook, turning occasionally, until crispy and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Thinly slice ¼ cup red onion and roughly chop a small handful of fresh mint leaves.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon honey, and salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust acidity or sweetness according to your preference.
  5. In a large bowl, combine blanched peas, chopped bacon, red onion slices, and 3 cups (90g) baby arugula or mixed greens. Pour the dressing over and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If adding extras like toasted pine nuts or crumbled feta, sprinkle them on top now.
  7. Serve immediately while the bacon is still crispy and the greens fresh.

Notes

Blanch peas quickly to preserve their snap and vibrant color. Let bacon cool on paper towels before chopping to keep it crispy. Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead and toss just before serving to avoid sogginess. Fresh mint can be substituted with basil or parsley.

Nutrition

Keywords: spring pea salad, crispy bacon salad, healthy lunch, easy salad recipe, fresh pea salad, homemade salad, quick salad

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