Perfect Pea Salad

This Perfect Pea Salad is a classic side dish made with tender peas, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick family dinner, this salad is easy to make, bursting with flavor, and loved by all. The creamy mayo and sour cream dressing, combined with smoky bacon and sharp cheddar, create a deliciously satisfying dish.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon sugar (see Notes)
• 2 teaspoons vinegar of choice (white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, etc.)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad

• 4 cups frozen peas (thawed)
• 8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 6 ounces cheddar cheese (cut into small cubes, about the size of a pea)
• ¼ cup scallions (chopped)

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Instructions

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
2. Place the thawed peas in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the peas and gently stir to coat them evenly.
3. Add the crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese cubes, and chopped scallions to the bowl. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated and coated in the dressing.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this salad is ready in minutes and perfect for busy days.
• Classic Comfort Food: Combines creamy dressing, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar for a nostalgic flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A hit at potlucks, barbecues, or family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

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Tips

• Thawing Peas: Quickly thaw peas by running them under cold water in a colander, then patting dry with paper towels.
• Cheese Size: Cut the cheddar cheese into small cubes for a balanced texture with every bite.
• Bacon Prep: For crispy bacon, bake in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, then crumble.
• Seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste, keeping in mind that bacon and cheese add saltiness.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Healthier Option: Use light mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a mix of the two for a lower-calorie dressing.
• Add Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts or sunflower seeds for added texture.
• More Veggies: Include diced red bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped celery for extra color and nutrients.
• Vegan Version: Swap bacon for plant-based bacon and use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream.
• Different Cheese: Replace cheddar with Colby Jack, gouda, or feta for a unique flavor twist.

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FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, but blanch them briefly in boiling water and then chill them in ice water to maintain their bright green color and fresh texture.

How long can I store this salad?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance for the best flavor as the ingredients have time to meld together.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon works as a time-saver. Just make sure it’s crispy for the best texture.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Perfect Side Dish: Pair this pea salad with grilled meats, sandwiches, or fried chicken.
• Potluck Favorite: Serve at barbecues, holiday dinners, or summer picnics for a dish everyone loves.
• On the Go: Pack in lunchboxes for a refreshing, protein-packed option.
• Garnish: Top with additional crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of fresh dill for extra appeal.

This Perfect Pea Salad is a creamy, savory, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a go-to recipe for any occasion!