Pin It Celebrate the New Year with a vibrant, protein-rich dish inspired by a Southern classic. This Hoppin John Salad features black-eyed peas and chickpeas tossed with fresh vegetables and a creamy tahini dressing, offering a healthy and auspicious start to your year.
Pin It Tradition meets modern nutrition in this easy-to-prepare salad. Whether you are following the custom of eating black-eyed peas for luck or simply looking for a flavorful meal prep option, this salad delivers on both taste and texture.
Ingredients
- Legumes: 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed), 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed.
- Vegetables: 1 cup cooked long-grain rice (preferably cooled), 1 small red bell pepper (diced), 1 small celery stalk (diced), 1/2 small red onion (finely chopped), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 green onions (sliced), 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped).
- Tahini Dressing: 1/4 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave nectar, 1 clove garlic (minced), 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin), 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional).
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Legumes
- If using dried black-eyed peas, rinse and soak them for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain, then cook in simmering water for 30–40 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool. If using canned, simply drain and rinse.
- Step 2: Combine Salad Base
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked or rinsed black-eyed peas, chickpeas, rice, bell pepper, celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes, green onions, and parsley.
- Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add water a tablespoon at a time until the dressing is creamy and pourable.
- Step 4: Toss Gently
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 5: Chill or Serve
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Mix gently before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using cooled long-grain rice is essential for maintaining the texture of the salad; warm rice may cause the fresh vegetables to soften too quickly. If you choose dried peas, ensure they are cooked until tender but still hold their shape.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra creaminess, stir in some diced avocado just before serving, or toss in a handful of chopped kale for added greens. If you prefer a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tahini dressing.
Serviervorschläge
This salad is incredibly versatile and pairs nicely with a glass of sparkling wine or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. It can be served as a main dish for a light lunch or as a celebratory side dish for your New Year's dinner.
Pin It With its combination of hearty legumes, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this Hoppin John Salad is a delicious way to usher in a year of health and prosperity. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors of this updated Southern tradition.
Recipe FAQs
- → Why is Hoppin' John eaten on New Year's?
Hoppin' John is a Southern tradition believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the new year. The black-eyed peas represent coins, while the collard greens (traditionally served alongside) symbolize paper money. This salad version maintains the lucky tradition while offering a lighter, fresher take on the classic.
- → Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?
Absolutely. Using canned black-eyed peas cuts preparation time significantly. Simply drain, rinse thoroughly, and add them directly to the salad. You'll need about 1.5 cans (15 oz each) to equal the cooked amount from 1 cup dried peas.
- → How long does this salad keep in the refrigerator?
This salad stores beautifully for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The vegetables maintain their crunch, and the flavors actually improve as they meld together. Just give it a gentle toss before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Hoppin' John salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your tahini and any canned ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have severe sensitivities. The rice adds texture without any wheat-based ingredients.
- → Can I make the tahini dressing ahead of time?
The tahini dressing can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It may thicken when cold, so simply whisk in a tablespoon of water to reach the desired creamy consistency before tossing with the salad.
- → What can I add to make this salad more hearty?
Diced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, while chopped kale or spinach increases the greens. You could also add quinoa instead of rice for extra protein, or include roasted sweet potatoes for more substance and seasonal flavor.