Favorite Pea Salad

This Favorite Pea Salad is a family classic that has stood the test of time. Sweet peas, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and zesty red onions are all tossed in a creamy, slightly tangy dressing that elevates this dish to a holiday must-have. Whether for Easter, Thanksgiving, or any occasion, this pea salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Prep time is only 10 minutes!
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling.
  • Balanced Flavors: Sweet peas, salty bacon, creamy dressing, and tangy vinegar combine beautifully.
  • Perfect for Gatherings: A guaranteed hit at potlucks, BBQs, and holiday dinners.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Dressing

  1. Sour Cream (½ cup): Adds tang and creaminess.
  2. Mayonnaise (⅓ cup): Balances the tang with a richer, smoother texture.
  3. Sugar (1 tbsp): Adds a touch of sweetness.
  4. White Vinegar (2 tsp): Provides a subtle tangy kick.
  5. Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the overall flavor.
  6. Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a bit of spice and depth.

For the Salad

  1. Frozen Peas (24 oz): Thawed and thoroughly drained to maintain freshness and texture.
  2. Bacon (⅓ cup): Crumbled crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory crunch.
    • Tip: About 10 slices of cooked bacon will give you the perfect amount.
  3. Red Onion (⅓ cup): Diced finely for a mild, zesty bite.
  4. Cheddar Cheese (½ cup): Shredded cheese adds a creamy and sharp contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing

  • In a medium-sized bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
  • Stir until smooth and well-blended. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Salad

  • In a large mixing bowl, place the thawed and drained peas, crumbled bacon, diced red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Toss gently to combine.

3. Add the Dressing

  • Pour the prepared dressing over the pea mixture.
  • Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

4. Chill and Serve

  • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serving Ideas

  • As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or holiday ham.
  • Potluck Favorite: Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and family reunions.
  • Light Meal: Pair with crusty bread for a simple lunch.

Tips for Success

  1. Pea Prep: Ensure peas are fully thawed and thoroughly drained to avoid a watery salad.
  2. Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy to add the perfect crunch.
  3. Customize the Texture: Adjust the amount of bacon, cheese, or onion to suit your taste.
  4. Make Ahead: Prepare a day in advance for the best flavor. The salad keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Variations to Try

  1. Healthier Option: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or a low-fat mayo alternative.
  2. Add Herbs: Mix in chopped parsley, dill, or chives for extra freshness.
  3. Extra Crunch: Add sunflower seeds, chopped celery, or diced bell peppers for added texture.
  4. Cheese Swaps: Substitute cheddar with gouda, Monterey Jack, or feta for a new twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. 1 cup)

  • Calories: 215 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Vitamin C: 35mg

Conclusion

This Favorite Pea Salad is a timeless classic that’s simple to prepare, endlessly versatile, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a festive gathering, this creamy, crunchy, and flavorful salad is sure to earn rave reviews. Enjoy every bite!

About Author

Arone.H is a Features Writer at Go astuces , where they share their passion for style, hair, and nails through every piece they create.

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