Buttermilk Spring Pea Salad: A Fresh & Creamy Spring Delight
There’s something magical about spring produce—the crisp snap of sugar snap peas, the tender sweetness of fresh peas, and the bright pop of herbs that make every bite feel like a celebration. This Buttermilk Spring Pea Salad is my love letter to the season, combining creamy, tangy buttermilk dressing with the freshest peas and a handful of crunchy veggies for a dish that’s as refreshing as a sunny afternoon.
I first made this salad for a backyard picnic last year, and it quickly became a staple in my spring recipe rotation. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at potlucks (trust me, I’ve seen it happen). The best part? It comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad brings a burst of spring to every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This Buttermilk Spring Pea Salad
This salad is a winner for so many reasons. Here’s why it’ll become your new go-to:
- Bright & Fresh: Packed with seasonal peas, radishes, and herbs, it tastes like spring in a bowl.
- Creamy & Tangy: The buttermilk dressing adds richness without weighing it down.
- Quick & Easy: No cooking required—just chop, whisk, and toss!
- Versatile: Serve it as a side, add grilled protein, or scoop it up with crackers.
How to Make Buttermilk Spring Pea Salad
This recipe is as simple as it gets, but a few tips will ensure it turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh spring peas (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup sugar snap peas, thinly sliced
- 4 radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt & pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the veggies: In a large bowl, combine peas, snap peas, radishes, red onion, and dill.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together buttermilk, mayo, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Toss & chill: Pour the dressing over the veggies and gently toss. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Serve & enjoy: Garnish with extra dill and a sprinkle of flaky salt before serving.
Recipe Tips & Variations
Want to mix it up? Here are a few fun twists:
- Add crunch: Toss in toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
- Make it heartier: Stir in crumbled feta or diced avocado.
- Swap the herbs: Mint or chives work beautifully in place of dill.
If you love fresh, easy salads, you’ll adore this Spring Vegetable Pasta—it’s another seasonal favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peas?
Absolutely! Just thaw them first and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
How long does this salad keep?
It’s best within 1–2 days, stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Swap buttermilk for almond milk + 1 tsp vinegar, and use vegan mayo.
What pairs well with this salad?
Try it with Grilled Lemon Chicken or crusty bread.
Can I prep it ahead?
Yes! Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
The sweet peas and creamy dressing usually win over little ones—just go light on the onions.
There you have it—a salad that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Every bite is a reminder of why spring cooking is so special: simple ingredients, vibrant flavors, and meals that bring people together. If you’re looking for more spring inspiration, check out this guide to seasonal spring recipes from Serious Eats. Now, go grab those peas and enjoy!
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Buttermilk Spring Pea Salad
Description
A refreshing and vibrant salad featuring sweet spring peas tossed in a creamy buttermilk dressing with fresh herbs and crisp vegetables. Perfect for picnics or as a light side dish.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- For the salad:
- 2 cups fresh spring peas (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup sugar snap peas, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- For the dressing:
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- 1. In a large bowl, combine spring peas, sugar snap peas, radishes, red onion, mint, and dill.
- 2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- 4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- 5. Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
For best results, use fresh peas when in season. If using frozen peas, thaw completely and pat dry before using. Salad can be made up to 8 hours in advance – store covered in refrigerator.