The BEST Pea Salad is a classic creamy side dish that is fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. This simple salad combines sweet green peas, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy dressing that brings everything together perfectly. It’s a favorite at summer barbecues, potlucks, and holiday meals because it’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. The balance of crunchy bacon, creamy dressing, and sweet peas creates a satisfying texture and flavor combination that makes this salad unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen sweet peas, thawed
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced cheddar cheese cubes (optional for texture)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ⅓ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (optional)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the peas
Place the frozen peas in a bowl and allow them to thaw completely. Drain any excess moisture so the salad does not become watery.
Step 2: Cook the bacon
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and allow it to cool before crumbling into small pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine salad ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the thawed peas, cheddar cheese, diced cheese cubes, crumbled bacon, and diced red onion.
Step 5: Add the dressing
Pour the creamy dressing over the salad ingredients and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Chill the salad
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors blend together and improves the texture.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Before serving, sprinkle additional bacon bits or fresh dill on top for garnish.
Variations
- Add diced hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and a classic picnic-style flavor.
- Stir in diced ham to make the salad more filling and savory.
- Replace cheddar cheese with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- Add sunflower seeds or chopped almonds for extra crunch.
- Mix in diced celery for additional texture and freshness.
- Add chopped pickles or relish for a tangy flavor boost.
- Use ranch seasoning in the dressing for a ranch-flavored pea salad.
Cooking Notes
- Frozen peas work best for this recipe because they maintain their sweetness and firm texture once thawed.
- Avoid canned peas since they are much softer and can make the salad mushy.
- Make sure the peas are fully thawed and well drained to prevent excess liquid in the salad.
- The dressing should be creamy but not too thick so it coats the peas evenly.
- Red onion adds sharpness that balances the sweetness of the peas and richness of the dressing.
- Letting the salad chill before serving helps the flavors blend together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled burgers or barbecue chicken at summer cookouts.
- Add to picnic spreads with pasta salad and potato salad.
- Pair with sandwiches, wraps, or deli platters for a light meal.
- Serve with baked ham or roasted chicken for a balanced dinner.
- Include it on holiday tables where cold salads help balance warm casseroles.
- Pair with fresh dinner rolls or cornbread for a comforting meal.
Tips
- For the best flavor, use thick-cut bacon and cook it until very crispy so it adds a crunchy texture to the salad.
- If the salad becomes too thick after chilling, stir in a small spoonful of milk or extra sour cream to loosen the dressing.
- Dice the red onion finely so it blends well without overpowering the other ingredients.
- For a slightly lighter version, you can replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt while still maintaining creaminess.
- Always chill the salad before serving because the flavors become more balanced and refreshing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes + chilling time
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
Calories: 290
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 21g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 420mg
FAQs
Can I make pea salad ahead of time?
Yes, pea salad is actually better when made ahead because chilling allows the flavors to blend together. It can be prepared several hours in advance or even the night before serving.
Do I have to cook the peas?
No, frozen peas only need to thaw before using. They are already blanched during processing and have the perfect texture once thawed.
Can I make this salad without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or a mixture of yogurt and sour cream for a lighter dressing option.
What cheese works best in pea salad?
Sharp cheddar cheese is the most popular because it adds a bold savory flavor that pairs well with the sweet peas.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers can be added for extra crunch and freshness.
How long does pea salad last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, pea salad will stay fresh for about three days.
Conclusion
The BEST Pea Salad is creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. With sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a rich creamy dressing, it’s a simple yet irresistible side dish that fits perfectly at potlucks, family dinners, and summer gatherings. Easy to make and always a crowd favorite, this classic salad is one you’ll want to make again and again.