Snap Pea Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette

Name: Snap Pea Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups sugar snap peas, thinly sliced diagonally; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish); 1/4 cup roughly chopped roasted salted pistachios (plus more for garnish); 1/8 – 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced or grated; 1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp maple syrup (or honey); 2 tbsp finely chopped shallot (optional); 1/2 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, this Snap Pea Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette is the ultimate seasonal side dish. Perfect for spring and early summer, it combines bright lemony notes with savory undertones and a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re serving it with grilled salmon, a vegan pasta, or enjoying it as a standalone dish, this salad is sure to impress. Plus, it’s ready in just 15 minutes and requires only one bowl — making it ideal for quick lunches or effortless entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Fresh Snap Pea Salad

This vibrant salad is not just easy to make — it’s also packed with nutritional benefits and dynamic textures. The focus keyword, Snap Pea Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette, describes exactly what makes this dish stand out: the crispness of snap peas paired with a zingy lemon-based dressing. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and fits effortlessly into a healthy lifestyle.

Whether you need a quick side for dinner or a fresh salad to take to a picnic, this dish delivers. It balances sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy flavors with every bite, making it a go-to option for those who love bold, clean tastes.

Ingredients That Make This Salad Shine

For the Salad

Sugar Snap Peas: Offer a naturally sweet crunch and vibrant green color
Fresh Basil: Adds an aromatic, herbaceous freshness
Roasted Salted Pistachios: Bring richness, a nutty crunch, and a burst of savory flavor
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Introduce a hint of heat and vibrant contrast

For the Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette

Lemon Juice: Provides zingy acidity that makes the salad pop
Olive Oil: Offers body, smooth texture, and richness
Garlic: Adds depth and savory punch
Dijon Mustard: Brings sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing
Maple Syrup (or honey): Balances acidity with natural sweetness
Shallot (optional): Delivers a mild onion flavor and complexity
Sea Salt: Enhances overall flavor
Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and balances the lemon’s acidity

Ingredient Substitutions and Customization Ideas

Don’t Have Everything? Try These Swaps

Herbs: Replace basil with mint or tarragon for a new flavor profile
Nuts: Use sunflower seeds, toasted almonds, or pumpkin seeds in place of pistachios
Sweetener: Agave syrup can be used instead of maple syrup
No Shallots?: Thinly sliced red onion or green onions work well
No Dijon?: A splash of apple cider vinegar can add similar tang

How to Make Snap Pea Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette

Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, chopped shallot (if using), salt, and pepper until fully combined and emulsified.
Add the Fresh Ingredients: Add the thinly sliced snap peas, chopped basil, and pistachios directly to the bowl.
Toss to Combine: Gently toss all the ingredients in the bowl until the salad is evenly coated with the vinaigrette.
Taste and Adjust: Add more lemon juice for brightness, maple syrup for a touch of sweetness, or salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
Garnish and Serve: Top with extra basil, pistachios, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a final touch of heat and color.

Pro Tips for the Best Snap Pea Salad

Slice Snap Peas Diagonally: This enhances their natural crunch and makes them easier to eat
Chill Before Serving: Cold snap peas and dressing bring out the salad’s refreshing qualities
Make the Dressing Ahead: Prep it up to 3 days in advance and store in the fridge
Don’t Overdress: This salad benefits from a light coat of vinaigrette
Use a Microplane for Garlic: Ensures an even mix into the vinaigrette

Creative Pairings and Flavor Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas to make it a light main course
Colorful Additions: Toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumber ribbons, or thinly sliced radishes
Make It Spicier: Mix red pepper flakes into the vinaigrette instead of garnishing
Side Suggestions: Pairs beautifully with lemon baked salmon, beet falafel, or a creamy pasta
Meal Prep Friendly: Keep dressing and dry salad ingredients separate until ready to serve

Why the Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette Is the Star

The vinaigrette in this Snap Pea Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette delivers the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. The Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier while adding a rich depth, and the maple syrup smooths out the acidity of the lemon. It’s a universal dressing that can be reused on grain bowls, grilled vegetables, or as a marinade for proteins.

Wrapping Up: A Refreshing Twist for Every Season

Whether you’re entertaining guests, prepping for a weeknight dinner, or simply craving a fresh, crunchy side, this Snap Pea Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette delivers every time. It’s a perfect balance of brightness, texture, and flavor that’s both nourishing and crowd-pleasing. With its 15-minute prep, minimal cleanup, and versatile nature, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again—especially during peak snap pea season.

So next time you spot snap peas at the market, remember: this salad isn’t just a dish—it’s a vibrant celebration of simple, seasonal ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Snap Pea Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, but with care. The lemon vinaigrette can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. However, for optimal crunch, slice and add the snap peas just before serving. This ensures the salad stays fresh and vibrant.

What protein pairs well with snap pea salad?

This salad is incredibly versatile. Try pairing it with grilled salmon, lemon herb chicken, baked tofu, or chickpeas for a hearty, balanced meal. It also works beautifully alongside vegan pasta dishes or grain bowls.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The snap peas will soften slightly over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making for meal prep, store the salad and dressing separately.

Can I use frozen snap peas?

It’s not recommended. Frozen snap peas tend to lose their crispness when thawed, which is essential to the texture of this dish. For best results, use fresh sugar snap peas and slice them just before mixing.

More Relevant Recipes

Lemon Vinaigrette Salad Dressing: A bright, citrusy dressing that pairs beautifully with crunchy vegetables. It shares the same zesty lemon base as the Snap Pea Salad, making it a great addition to fresh greens or seasonal salads.
Crunchy Winter Slaw: This refreshing slaw features crisp textures and tangy flavors, much like the Snap Pea Salad. It’s an ideal side dish for colder months while maintaining that same crunchy and zesty profile.
Honey Lemon Vinaigrette: This sweet and tangy dressing is a close cousin to the one in the Snap Pea Salad. Its balance of honey and lemon brings brightness to roasted veggies, grain bowls, or green salads.

Snap Pea Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette – Easy, Zesty Favorite

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