1: Introduction to Pea Salad
What Is Pea Salad?
Pea salad is a creamy, flavorful side dish made primarily with green peas, cheese, bacon, and a tangy dressing. It is a simple yet satisfying salad often enjoyed at barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings. The combination of sweet peas, savory bacon, and rich cheddar cheese creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pea salad recipe is quick and easy to make, requiring minimal prep time. It’s also highly customizable—you can add ingredients like ham, eggs, or pickles to suit your taste. Whether you need a last-minute dish for a picnic or a make-ahead option for a busy weeknight, this salad is a perfect choice. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy peas in a new and delicious way!
Brief History of Pea Salad
Pea salad has been a staple in American cuisine for decades, particularly in Southern and Midwestern households. The dish likely gained popularity in the mid-20th century when canned and frozen peas became widely available. Traditionally, it was made with mayonnaise, cheese, and onion, but variations have emerged over time. Today, it remains a classic comfort food enjoyed year-round.
2: Ingredients for the Perfect Pea Salad
Essential Ingredients for Classic Pea Salad
To make a traditional pea salad, you’ll need:
- Green peas – Sweet and tender, they form the base of the salad.
- Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar adds a rich, tangy contrast.
- Bacon – Crispy bacon brings a smoky, savory crunch.
- Red onion – Adds a bit of bite and color to the dish.
- Mayonnaise – The creamy dressing base that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance the flavors.
Optional Add-ins for Customization
Want to switch things up? Try adding:
- Hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Diced ham for a heartier version.
- Pickles or pickle juice for a tangy kick.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter dressing alternative.
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness.
Choosing the Best Peas: Fresh, Frozen, or Canned?
- Frozen peas are the best choice—they’re sweet, tender, and easy to use. Simply thaw them before mixing.
- Fresh peas can be used but may require blanching for a softer texture.
- Canned peas are the least preferred option as they tend to be mushy and lack the vibrant flavor of fresh or frozen peas.
3: How to Make Pea Salad: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Peas
If using frozen peas, place them in a colander and run cold water over them for a few minutes until thawed. You can also let them sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Drain any excess water to prevent a watery salad. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain thoroughly.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared peas with diced cheddar cheese, crispy cooked bacon, and finely chopped red onion. These ingredients provide a perfect balance of sweetness, saltiness, and crunch.
Step 3: Making the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, a splash of vinegar or lemon juice, a pinch of sugar (optional), salt, and black pepper. Some recipes also include a bit of Dijon mustard or sour cream for extra tanginess. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Step 4: Combining Everything and Serving
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a finishing touch. Serve chilled and enjoy!
4: Variations of Pea Salad
Classic Southern-Style Pea Salad
This version sticks to traditional ingredients—peas, cheddar cheese, bacon, red onion, and a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing. A touch of sugar is often added for a subtle sweetness, making it a favorite at Southern cookouts and family gatherings.
Healthy and Light Pea Salad
For a lighter take, swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and light sour cream. You can also add diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice enhances the flavor while keeping the salad refreshing.
Pea Salad with Ham and Cheese
This heartier variation includes diced ham, making it a more filling dish. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal. Some recipes also use Swiss cheese instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Pea Salad Options
To make a plant-based version, replace the mayonnaise with vegan mayo or mashed avocado for creaminess. Omit the bacon and instead add toasted sunflower seeds or smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor. Vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can be used in place of traditional cheddar.
5: Tips and Tricks for the Best Pea Salad
How to Keep Your Pea Salad from Getting Watery
One of the biggest issues with pea salad is excess moisture. To prevent this:
- Drain thawed frozen peas thoroughly. Let them sit on a paper towel to absorb any remaining water.
- If using fresh peas, blanch them quickly and pat them dry.
- Avoid adding too much dressing at once; start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Best Cheese Choices for Pea Salad
While sharp cheddar is the most common cheese for pea salad, other great options include:
- Colby Jack – A milder, creamier option.
- Swiss cheese – Adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
- Feta cheese – For a tangy twist.
- Parmesan – If you prefer a more intense, salty flavor.
How to Make Pea Salad in Advance
Pea salad can be made a day ahead for better flavor. However:
- Store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving.
- Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge.
- If adding bacon, wait until serving time to keep it crispy.
6: FAQs About Pea Salad
What Are the Ingredients in Pea Salad?
A classic pea salad includes green peas, cheddar cheese, bacon, red onion, and a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing. Some variations may add boiled eggs, ham, pickles, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Can You Eat Raw Peas in a Salad?
Yes! Fresh, raw peas are sweet and crunchy, making them a great addition to salads. However, they can be slightly firm, so some people prefer to blanch them quickly for a softer texture.
Can I Use Canned Peas for Pea Salad?
While you can use canned peas, they tend to be much softer and can make the salad mushy. If using canned peas, drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the salad. Frozen peas are the preferred option for better texture and taste.
Do You Put Pickles in Pea Salad?
Some recipes include diced pickles or a splash of pickle juice for a tangy kick. If you like a bit of acidity in your salad, adding sweet or dill pickles can enhance the overall flavor.
7: Conclusion
Pea salad is a timeless, easy-to-make dish that brings together the sweetness of peas, the creaminess of dressing, and the savory crunch of bacon and cheese. Whether you prefer the classic Southern-style version, a lighter and healthier alternative, or a heartier variation with ham, this salad is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.
With the right ingredients and a few simple tips—like choosing frozen peas for the best texture and making the salad in advance for enhanced flavor—you can create a perfect pea salad every time. Plus, with endless customization options, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
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Pea Salad Recipe: Creamy, Crunchy & Absolutely Irresistible!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
This pea salad recipe is creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor! Made with sweet green peas, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a tangy dressing, it’s the perfect side dish for BBQs, potlucks, or family gatherings. Quick and easy to make, this dish is a classic comfort food that never fails to impress!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, diced or shredded
- ½ cup crispy bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- ½ cup diced ham
- ¼ cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Peas: If using frozen peas, place them in a colander and rinse under cold water until thawed. Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peas, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill & Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance for even better flavor. Add bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the peas may change.
- Lighter Version: Substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a healthier alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Southern