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Wax Bean, Pea, and Chorizo Salad

This vibrant wax bean, pea and chorizo salad is a wonderful celebration of seasonal produce and bold Mediterranean flavours. Combining the gentle crunch of fresh wax beans and sweet garden peas with the smoky depth of Spanish cured sausage, it offers a sophisticated balance of textures. The sherry vinegar dressing adds a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the chorizo, making it a refreshing choice for a light summer lunch or a striking side dish for grilled fish.

As a diabetes-friendly option, this recipe focuses on fibre-rich vegetables and high-quality fats. The use of fresh pods and legumes ensures a nutrient-dense meal that is naturally satisfying without being heavy. It is a colourful, healthy addition to any midweek menu, providing a clever way to enjoy a savoury treat like chorizo whilst keeping the overall dish balanced and wholesome.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Wax Bean, Pea, and Chorizo Salad

  • 2 bunches new onions (1 inch in diameter), trimmed, or 230g boiling onions

  • 450g fresh peas in pods, shucked (120 to 240ml )

  • 900g wax beans, trimmed

  • 90g Spanish chorizo (cured sausage

  • 5 inches long),peeled, halved lengthwise, and sliced 1/8 inch thick

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 60ml Sherry vinegar

How to make Wax Bean, Pea, and Chorizo Salad

Cut an X in root end of each onion, then cook onions in an 8-qt pot of boiling salted water (2 1/2 tablespoons salt for 4.7L water) until tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to an ice bath to stop cooking (keep pot of water at a boil), then drain onions well. Discard any skins and squeeze onions at stem end so small layers slip out separately.

Boil peas until just tender, about 2 minutes, cooling and draining in same manner as onions, then wax beans, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer onions, peas, and beans to a large serving bowl.

Warm chorizo, oil, and vinegar in a heavy medium skillet over medium-low heat. Remove from heat. Add 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoons pepper, then pour over vegetables and toss to coat.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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