Refreshing Green Pea and Cured Meat Salad

This Refreshing Green Pea and Cured Meat Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dish packed with vibrant colors and flavors. Perfect for a light lunch or a fresh side dish, this salad combines the sweet crunch of ice-cold lettuce, crisp cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes with the savory taste of finely chopped cured meat. The addition of preserved peas offers a tender texture, while a splash of tangy lemon juice ties all the elements together beautifully. In just a few minutes, you can toss this salad together and enjoy a dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. The recipe is simple, with minimal preparation required, making it ideal for busy lifestyles. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering, a picnic, or just for yourself, this salad promises to be refreshingly rewarding. With fresh vegetables and aromatic cured meat, every bite offers a burst of delightful flavors. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with other dishes for a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4 slices of cured meat
• 1/3 head of iceberg lettuce
• 1/2 cucumber
• 2 tomatoes
• 250 g canned green peas
• 1/2 lemon

Preparation Time

Total Time: 10 minutes (Prep time: 10 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by assembling all the ingredients on your workspace for ease of preparation.
2. Take the **cured meat slices** and cut them into small cubes. Ensure the pieces are bite-sized for even distribution in the salad.
3. Next, slice the **cucumber** in half lengthwise and then into thin half-moon-shaped slices.
4. Move on to the **tomatoes**, cutting each one into wedges. Aim for a mix of sizes to add visual interest to your salad.
5. Then, take the **iceberg lettuce** and tear it into medium-sized pieces, or gently chop it if you prefer uniform pieces.
6. Gently rinse the **canned green peas** under cold water using a colander to refresh them and to remove any excess liquid or preserving brine.
7. In a large salad bowl, combine the torn or chopped lettuce, sliced cucumber, tomato wedges, and drained green peas.
8. Add the cubed cured meat to the vegetable mix, combining gently to distribute the meat evenly throughout.
9. Juice **half a lemon**, taking care to remove any seeds, and drizzle the juice over the mixed salad ingredients in the bowl.
10. Toss the salad lightly using salad tongs, ensuring that the lemon juice coats all parts for flavor enhancement.
11. If needed, season the salad lightly with salt and black pepper, taking care not to overpower the fresh flavors.
12. Give the salad one final toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
13. Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving, giving time for the flavors to meld together.
14. Serve the salad on chilled plates for an extra refreshing experience.
15. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
16. Before serving leftovers, toss again to refresh the salad and ensure even distribution of dressing.

Tips

• For extra zest, add a drizzle of olive oil mixed with the lemon juice.
• Cilantro or mint leaves make excellent garnishes for added flavor.
• Substitute chicken or turkey slices if you prefer a different protein.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 150 per serving

• Protein: 8 grams
• Fat: 6 grams
• Carbohydrates: 14 grams
• Fiber: 4 grams

Variations

• For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add roasted chickpeas or feta cheese.
• Incorporate different cured meats such as prosciutto or smoked turkey for a diverse flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread to add a satisfying crunch to your meal.
• Enjoy alongside a light chicken soup for a wholesome, nourishing lunch.
• Serve with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water for refreshment.

Best Places

• Le Pain Quotidien - Cozy atmosphere and organic ingredients for health-focused dishes. Location: 77 Rue de Seine, Paris, France.
• Farmstand - Delicious plant-based menu featuring local produce. Location: 42 Drury Ln, London, United Kingdom.
• Chloe's Eatery - Known for their fresh and vibrant salads, ideal for quick healthy meals. Location: 185 Bleecker St, New York, USA.
• Rachel's Eco Love - Offers a wide range of gluten-free and vegan dishes. Location: 15 Dizengoff St, Tel Aviv, Israel.
• PROUD Mary Café - Stylish setting with a focus on organic, locally-sourced ingredients. Location: 172 Oxford St, Sydney, Australia.
• Greems - Urban deli with a modern twist on classic dishes. Location: No. 150, Sec. 4, Zhongxiao E. Rd., Taipei, Taiwan.
• Green Time - Offers a delicious mix of salads and plant-based meals. Location: Am Kupfergraben 3, Berlin, Germany.
• Fonda Natura - Organic restaurant with a menu full of seasonal specialties. Location: Travessera de Gracia, 180, Barcelona, Spain.
• Nature's Basket - Top spot for healthy food lovers with farm-fresh ingredients. Location: Two Mile Hill, Brisbane, Australia.
• Good& Green - Specializes in fresh, sustainable, and natural gastronomy. Location: Avenue Louise 304, Brussels, Belgium.