This pea with cheese salad recipe is made with sweet peas, penne pasta, cheddar cheese, spicy leeks and a creamy Italian dressing to make a fresh and flavorful cheese salad.
For variety and a change of taste, try the easy ingredient exchanges below. They will give you simple ideas to make a variety of quick salads.
fresh or frozen peas – 1 cup (if using frozen, thaw and drain)
penne pasta – 2 cups cooked
*cheddar cheese – 1/2 cup cubed
leeks – 1/2 cup thinly sliced half-moons (be sure to thoroughly clean leeks before using – cutting lengthwise down the middle and slightly separating each layer as you place under a running faucet will wash all the dirt away)
*bottled creamy Italian dressing – 1/2 cup (choose a natural brand without preservatives or artificial ingredients)
* Quick Tip to Lower Fat: Choose a low-fat or nonfat cheddar cheese and Italian dressing
Make Ahead: - If using frozen peas, thaw, drain and measure out 1 cup
- Prepare pasta according to package directions and measure out 2 cups
** This flavorful pea with cheese salad recipe goes great with grilled tuna steaks.
** You can also pair our cheese salad with a bowl of tomato soup and garlic toast. It's a great combination.
Light Meal Ideas (suitable for lunch or a light dinner):
**Cheese Salad with Fresh Fruit Combo: Serve this quick salad on assorted salad greens with a side of mandarin orange sections and pineapple chunks.
** Another delicious and easy serving idea is to spoon this easy cheese salad over thin slices of avocado along with cheese breadsticks or whole grain crackers.
