Pea salad is a refreshing and creamy dish that combines nutritious peas with a delightful dressing. This dish is perfect for gatherings and offers a delicious way to enjoy vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy flavor that satisfies any salad lover.
- Simple preparation with minimal cooking time.
- A family favorite that sparks nostalgia for potluck gatherings.
- Versatile—perfect as a side or main dish.
- Components can be substituted based on preference.
Delicious Pea Salad
- Total Time: 250 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
A creamy and refreshing pea salad with a tangy dressing, crisp peas, and savory turkey bacon. Perfect for gatherings or weekend meals.
Ingredients
½ cup sour cream
⅓ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp sugar
2 tsp white vinegar
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
24 oz frozen peas (thawed & well drained)
⅓ cup turkey bacon (crumbled, ~10 slices)
⅓ cup red onion (diced)
½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
Make the dressing: In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add peas, turkey bacon, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
Mix together: Pour dressing over the salad and stir until everything is well coated.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for best flavor.
Serve: Stir, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve cold.
Notes
For best results, chill the dressing separately before mixing into the salad.
Substitute peas with fresh or canned (drained) peas if preferred.
Use pre-cooked turkey bacon to save time.
Replace cheddar cheese with another melting cheese like gouda or mozzarella if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp white vinegar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 24 oz frozen peas (thawed & well drained)
- ⅓ cup bacon (crumbled, ~10 slices)
- ⅓ cup red onion (diced)
- ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Why These Ingredients Work
The key component, frozen peas, holds sweetness and a crisp texture that makes this salad refreshing. Sour cream and mayonnaise combine seamlessly to create a creamy dressing that clings to every ingredient.
Red onion adds a sharp bite, balancing the flavors beautifully, while bacon contributes a crunchy texture and savory umami. The cheddar cheese rounds out the dish with its creamy richness, making every bite more indulgent.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Large spoon for mixing
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or container for chilling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the dressing:In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Combine salad ingredients:In a large bowl, add peas, bacon, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
Mix together:Pour dressing over the salad and stir until everything is well coated.
Chill:Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for best flavor.
Serve:Stir, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve cold.
You Must Know
This pea salad is best served cold, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. It can be adjusted seasonally with additional vegetables or by swapping out the cheese or bacon for your favorite alternatives. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving for the best results.
Personal Secret: For the creamiest dressing, allow the combination of sour cream and mayonnaise to chill before mixing with the salad. This enhances the overall flavor profile and smoothness.
Pro Tips & Cooking Hacks
- Use pre-cooked bacon or turkey bacon as a healthier option.
- Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Omit ingredients that do not suit your taste, like onions or cheese.
- Include fresh herbs like dill for an aromatic touch.
- Adjust the sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
Flavor Variations & Suggestions
For a tangier taste, mix in some Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayo. A sprinkle of lemon juice can brighten up the dish significantly. Consider adding chopped avocado for creaminess and an extra layer of flavor.
For spice lovers, a dash of cayenne pepper can give the salad a pop.
Make-Ahead Options
This pea salad can be made up to two days in advance. Prepare the dressing and combine with the other ingredients, then chill it as directed. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Avoid freezing due to the change in texture of peas and dressing after thawing.
What to Serve With Pea Salad
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, making a light but filling meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside a crispy corn on the cob or alongside pulled turkey sandwiches.
It’s also fantastic next to a fresh fruit salad for an added touch of sweetness.
Allergy Information
This recipe contains dairy (sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese). Substitute dairy-free yogurt for sour cream and a dairy-free mayo for a lactose-free version.
The recipe also includes bacon, so use turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian variant.
Storage & Reheating
Store pea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
The salad should be consumed within three days for the best quality. Reheating is not recommended; serve it cold for optimal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute frozen peas with fresh peas for this salad?
Yes, fresh peas can be used but will require blanching for a tender texture.
How can I make this salad healthier?
Simply reduce the amount of mayonnaise and replace it with Greek yogurt or low-fat alternatives.
What should I do if the salad is too salty?
Include more peas or some diced potatoes to absorb the saltiness.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made ahead for flavors to develop; refrigerate for up to three days.
Is it possible to customize the ingredients in this salad?
Definitely! Add your choice of vegetables to personalize the flavor profile.
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