Classic Pea Salad
Classic pea salad is a cool, creamy, and colorful side dish perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or everyday meals. Made with sweet green peas, crispy bacon, cheese, and a tangy dressing, it strikes the perfect balance between salty, sweet, and savory. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy and quick to make—no cooking required if you use pre-cooked bacon!
Time & Servings:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes
Total Time: 10–40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
4 cups frozen peas (thawed but not cooked)
1/2 small red onion, finely diced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or small cubes)
6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
1 tsp sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet touch)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prep Ingredients: Thaw peas by placing them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes. Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine Salad: In a large bowl, combine peas, red onion, cheddar cheese, and bacon. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill (Optional): Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold.
Optional Add-ins:
Diced celery or bell pepper for extra crunch
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill
Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version
Frequently asked questions :
Q: Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?
A: You can, but frozen peas hold their shape and sweetness better. If using canned, drain and rinse them well.
Q: How long does pea salad last in the fridge?
A: It keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.
Q: Is it gluten-free?
A: Yes, just ensure your bacon and cheese are gluten-free (most are).
Nutritional Information:
Calories: ~280 kcal
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 420mg
(Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on exact brands and measurements used.)