Pin it
This rich, dreamy pea salad turns basic frozen peas into an unforgettable side that'll steal the show at cookouts, family dinners, and social get-togethers. The mix of crunchy bacon, bold cheddar, and zesty dressing creates a mouthwatering blend of tastes and textures that'll have everyone grabbing another helping.
I threw this pea salad together for a block party without much thought, figuring it'd just fill space on the buffet table. I couldn't believe how quickly it vanished – faster than everything else! Folks kept asking me how I made it. Now I can't show up to summer parties without bringing it along.
Must-Have Components
- Frozen peas: Deliver natural sweetness and keep their nice crunch without any cooking, just thaw them out
- Bacon: Gives that smoky crispness against the sweet peas, go for thick-cut strips for better texture
- Red onion: Adds lovely color and gentle kick, pick one that feels solid and looks vibrant
- Cheddar cheese cubes: Make little spots of creamy goodness, go milder or sharper based on what you like
- Sour cream and mayonnaise: Form the smooth, rich base for your dressing, don't skimp with low-fat kinds
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds much-needed zing to cut the richness, raw unfiltered stuff works great
- Sugar: Balances out the sour notes and boosts the peas' sweetness, tweak it as you want
- Salt: Pulls all the flavors together, kosher salt does the trick nicely
Easy Method
- Mix Your Dressing:
- Get a big bowl and stir the sour cream, mayo, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt until it's smooth and even. You want it fluid enough to pour but thick enough to coat, with no sugar bits left. This makes the creamy coating that'll wrap around everything else.
- Toss Everything Together:
- Start with thawed peas in the dressing, stirring gently so you don't mash them. Then add your bacon bits, chopped red onion, and cheese chunks. Use a soft spatula to mix everything with a light touch until each piece gets coated in dressing.
- Let It Rest:
- Cover your bowl and stick it in the fridge at least an hour, though 3-4 hours works better for letting flavors come together. This cooling period is key – it helps the dressing soak into the peas and tones down the raw onion. Give it one more gentle stir before serving and maybe add a bit more salt if needed.
Bacon really makes this dish special. I found this out the hard way when I tried making it without meat once and it just wasn't the same. That smoky flavor and crispy texture can't be copied. My grandma always told me a winning pea salad needs that right mix of sweet, salty, and creamy to really stand out.
Customization Ideas
This tried-and-true pea salad can handle some tweaks while keeping its soul intact. Try tossing in some chopped boiled eggs for more protein and depth, or add a handful of fresh dill or parsley for a green pop. Some families like adding water chestnuts for extra crunch or a splash of hot sauce for kick. The core recipe stays the same, but these little changes can make it uniquely yours.
Keeping It Fresh
One great thing about this salad is how nicely it keeps. Pop leftover portions in a sealed container and they'll stay good up to three days in your fridge. The flavors actually get better overnight, making tomorrow's portion extra tasty. If it seems dry after sitting, just mix in a spoonful of mayo to bring back the creaminess before you dig in again.
Great Food Combos
This adaptable salad goes with almost anything but tastes amazing next to grilled steaks, crispy fried chicken, or smoky barbecue. Its cool creaminess works wonders against spicy dishes. For a complete spread, put it alongside some deviled eggs and fresh rolls. In summertime, I love to serve it with juicy watermelon slices for a temperature and flavor contrast that feels perfectly seasonal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can fresh peas be swapped for frozen ones?
Of course! Just blanch fresh peas in boiling water until tender, cool them off, and they’re good to go.
- → What’s the best way to prep it ahead?
Keep the dressing and salad ingredients separate, then mix them together the same day you’re serving for the best texture.
- → What’s a good bacon alternative?
Try turkey bacon, crisp pancetta, or vegetarian bacon for a similar crunch and flavor.
- → Can I toss in more veggies?
Definitely! Add diced cucumber, bell pepper, or celery to shake things up with extra crunch and freshness.
- → How long will it last in the fridge?
Store it in a tight container for about 3 days. Give it a good stir before diving in again.