Save to Pinterest Start your year on a vibrant and nutritious note with this New Years Hoppin John Salad. This protein-rich dish is a fresh, modern take on the beloved Southern classic, combining traditional black-eyed peas with chickpeas and a medley of crisp vegetables. Bathed in a creamy, homemade tahini dressing, it is the perfect meal for those seeking a healthy and auspicious beginning to the new year.
Save to Pinterest By using long-grain rice and a variety of colorful vegetables like red bell pepper and cherry tomatoes, this salad offers a delightful texture in every bite. The tahini dressing adds a sophisticated depth of flavor with hints of lemon, garlic, and optional smoked paprika, creating a fusion dish that is as satisfying as it is symbolic.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 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
- 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
- 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
- In a large bowl, combine black-eyed peas, chickpeas, rice, bell pepper, celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes, green onions, and parsley.
- Step 3
- In a small bowl, whisk together 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
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 5
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Mix gently before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best flavor development, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving; this allows the tahini dressing to fully permeate the legumes and rice. Ensure your rice is completely cooled before mixing to maintain the salad's distinct textures. If using canned ingredients, thorough rinsing is key to a fresh-tasting result.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this salad by adding diced avocado for extra creaminess or a handful of chopped kale for added greens and nutrients. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding finely diced jalapeños to the salad mix or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the tahini dressing.
Serviervorschläge
This New Years Hoppin John Salad is substantial enough to be enjoyed as a main course or as a festive side dish. To complete the celebration, pair it with a glass of sparkling wine or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the bright acidity of the lemon and vinegar in the dressing.
Save to Pinterest With its combination of protein, fresh vegetables, and meaningful ingredients, this salad is more than just a meal—it's a delicious way to toast to health and happiness in the new year.
Common Recipe Questions
- → 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.
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad actually tastes better after the flavors have time to meld. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, but add the dressing just before serving to keep vegetables crisp.
- → What can I substitute for tahini?
You can use Greek yogurt, cashew butter, or almond butter as alternatives. The flavor profile will change slightly, but each creates a creamy, satisfying dressing.
- → Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as written this dish is gluten-free. Just ensure your tahini and any canned ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
- → How can I add more protein to this dish?
Consider adding diced avocado, hemp seeds, or even grilled chicken. The combination of black-eyed peas and chickpeas already provides 13 grams of protein per serving.
- → Can I use frozen black-eyed peas?
Absolutely! Thaw frozen black-eyed peas completely and drain well before adding to the salad. They work just as well as cooked dried peas.