Pea Salad Recipe – A Modern Twist To The British Classic

Want to make an easy vegan appetizer that impresses? Pea Salad might sound simple, but it’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavors you wouldn’t expect.

For Toronto Restaurants Signature Recipes, now you can “travel to Toronto” and get a taste of England at home because Donna’s shares this pea salad recipe (with vegan option) for people to enjoy.

This version from Donna’s in Toronto takes it to another level, all while staying true to its roots in English cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of crisp greens or a believer in the magic of a good pea puree, this dish is worth making.

Want more appetizer recipes? Try the Air Fryer French Fries and French Chard Fritters (Farcous).

What is Pea Salad?

Pea Salad has been a staple side dish in British cuisine for ages. Traditionally, it’s a straightforward mix of peas, herbs, and creamy dressing.

Why You’ll Love This English Pea Salad Recipe

The Pea Salad is a fresh vibrant salad that also fills you up!

– Donna’s

Donna’s has given it a modern twist with a bold charred onion, bright pickled jalapeño, and a silky pea puree that brings everything together.

The result? A side dish that’s exciting enough to steal the show.

• It’s incredibly fresh – Packed with peas in different forms, it’s crisp, green, and refreshing.
• Perfect for sharing – Whether as an appetizer or side, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
• A great vegan recipe – No dairy, no meat, just plant-based goodness.
• Balanced flavors – The sweetness of peas, tang of jalapeños, and depth from charred onions work together beautifully.

So if you’re looking to impress your family or guests, you’ll want to try this twist to the classic English pea salad that’s elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a casual weeknight meal.

Plus, be sure to try Donna’s in Toronto for delicious globally-inspired homecooked meals.

The recipe and image for Pea Salad was provided by Donna’s to be included in this list of Toronto Restaurants Signature Recipes. If you made this Toronto recipe, share you creation on Instagram, and tag @donnas.to and @travellingfoodie.

What You Need for Pea Salad

Equipment

• Medium Pot – To soften peas and build flavor in the puree.
• Stick Blender – Essential for a smooth pea puree.
• Pan – For charring the onion, which adds a smoky depth.
• Mixing Bowl – For tossing the salad components.

Ingredients

• Peas – A mix of fresh, snap, and pureed peas gives different textures.
• Olive Oil – Used throughout for richness and flavor.
• Pickled Jalapeño – Adds a sharp, tangy contrast.
• White Onion & Shallot – Sweet and aromatic, with layers of flavor.
• Frisee & Baby Pea Shoots – Crisp greens that brighten the dish.
• Lemons – A squeeze of fresh citrus balances everything.
• Salt – To enhance and bring out the natural flavors

How to Make Pea Salad from Donna’s Toronto

Here’s how you can make this English pea salad with a twist.

1. Make the pea puree – Cook shallots with peas in olive oil for five minutes, then puree until smooth. Set aside.
2. Char the onions – Quarter the onion, char it in a pan until blackened on all sides, then toss in olive oil and salt.
3. Prep the greens – Cut frisée and pea shoots into bite-sized pieces.
4. Chop the jalapeños and snap peas – Finely dice them for bursts of crunch and tanginess.
5. Plate the salad – Spread pea puree on the bottom of the plate. Mix all other ingredients in a bowl with a squeeze of lemon and salt, then pile the salad on top, using all the delicious juices.

Looking for more salads? Try Cobb Salad and Mushroom Salad.

FAQs and Helpful Tips for Pea Salad Beginners

If it’s your first time making pea salad, don’t worry. Here are a few tips and tricks to help.

About Donna’s Toronto

With a cute decor, Donna’s is an all-day neighborhood restaurant in Toronto that’s known for its internationally inspired yet homecooked dishes. Their menu takes familiar ingredients and turns them into memorable meals.

Location Map

What Dishes To Serve With Pea Salad

Here’s what you can serve with English pea salad:

• As a side for Roast Chicken or Ninja Speedi Mexican Fish and Rice
• Served alongside Chilled Pea Soup for a light appetizer.
• Paired with Spinach Dal for a full vegan meal.
• With a crusty Air Fryer Garlic Bread to scoop up that delicious puree.

Donna’s Pea Salad Recipe

Be sure to bookmark/save/pin this post so you know how to make English pea salad from Donna’s Toronto at home!

I would love to see how this recipe worked for you! Please share your creations with me on social media and tag me so I can check them out: @TravellingFoodie on Instagram & Facebook and @TravellinFoodie on Twitter.

Hope this Pea Salad recipe gives you an idea on what side dish or appetizer to make for your next lunch or dinner. This vegan salad is proof that a few carefully chosen vegetables can come together for something truly refreshing.

Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or just treating yourself, it’s a great way to eat healthy while having something delicious. Let me know what other salad or vegan food recipes you’d like to see or from which Toronto restaurant.