In the South, black-eyed peas and turnip greens are traditional dishes served on New Year’s Day. The reason? Luck and money. Black-eyed peas are believed to bring you luck and turnip greens bring money. Whether or not this folklore is true, many gatherings on Jan. 1 will include one or both. Turnip greens are readily available this time of year and dried black-eyed peas can be picked up at the grocery store.
Here’s a recipe from Lisa Prince and Local Dish that incorporates black-eyed peas in tasty way. It would be perfect for that New Year’s Eve party or to serve the first day of 2018.
- 3 cups fresh black-eyed peas (cooked and drained)
- 4 Roma tomatoes or 2 large tomatoes (seeded and diced)
- 2 avocados (chopped)
- 1 small yellow pepper (diced)
- 3⁄4 cup purple onion (diced)
- 3⁄4 cup Zesty Italian dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1 jalapeno (seeded and diced)
Combine all ingredients and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Serve dip with chips. If you like a spicier taste, add an additional jalapeno to the recipe.
Have a Happy New Year!