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Pea Salad

Pea Salad - Delicious Meal Ideas

As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I often hear about the unsung heroes of the salad world. One such champion is the humble pea salad. It’s a dish that brings together the sweet pop of peas, the crunch of fresh ingredients, and a zesty dressing. 
If you're in search of a salad that's easy to whip up, appealing to both kids and adults, and a total crowd-pleaser, then I invite you to journey with me through the world of pea salad.
I've been experimenting with this dish for years, and each time, it mesmerizes me with its simplicity and flavor. It graces my table during family gatherings, summer barbecues, and potlucks. 
Whether I’m serving it cold or at room temperature, there’s something about this salad that draws everyone in. Let’s dive deeper into what makes pea salad special—its vibrant ingredients, the ease of preparation, and the delightful satisfaction it brings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups frozen green peas, thawed: The stars of the show, sweet and tender.
  • 8 slices bacon, chopped: Adds richness and crunch.
  • 3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed: For a creamy, cheesy goodness.
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Classic dressing component.
  • 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream: For creaminess; makes the salad richer.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar: Balances the tanginess of the dressing.
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A dash of seasoning.
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar: For a hint of acidity.
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt: Enhances all the flavors.
  • 1/3 cup finely diced red onion: Provides crunch and a bite of flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives: To add a mild oniony freshness.

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
  1. Start by crisping up your bacon. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s golden brown and crispy. This might take around 6–8 minutes. Drain the bacon on a paper towel to absorb excess grease.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
  1. In the meantime, while the bacon is cooking, focus on prepping your vegetables. Finely chop your red onion and chives. Halve or cube the sharp cheddar cheese. This is where you can add a little zest to your step—feel free to do a little dance while chopping. Trust me; it helps!
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
  1. In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Stir until fully combined and smooth. Add black pepper and sea salt. Give it a taste—this mixture should be creamy yet tangy.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
  1. Once your bacon has cooled, it's time to bring everything together. In the bowl with the dressing, add the thawed peas, chopped bacon, diced onions, cheddar cheese, and chives. Gently fold everything to ensure the peas get fully coated in that creamy goodness.
Step 5: Chill
  1. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to marry. If you can wait overnight, even better!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
  1. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir. Taste it one more time to see if it needs a little more seasoning. Sublime flavor bombs are ready to hit the table!

Notes

  • Swapping Ingredients: No bacon? No worries! Try turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian option.
  • Fresh Peas: If preferred, you can use fresh peas instead of frozen. Just blanch them for a few minutes in boiling water and plunge in ice water.
  • Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or mozzarella. Each cheese brings a different character to the salad.
  • Add Heat: A few dashes of hot sauce can really wake up the flavor if you enjoy a kick.
  • Extra Veggies: Include some diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for added color and nutrition.