A Classic Pea Salad is a simple and delicious dish that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or just as a side dish for any meal. The combination of sweet peas, creamy dressing, and crunchy bits of bacon, cheese, and onions makes it a crowd-pleaser! Here’s an easy recipe for a Classic Pea Salad:
Classic Pea Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen peas (thawed) or fresh peas (blanched)
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 3-4 slices)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the peas:
- If using frozen peas, thaw them by running them under cold water for a minute or letting them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Drain well.
- If using fresh peas, blanch them by boiling them for 1-2 minutes and then immediately transferring them to an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the bacon:
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces.
- Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, cheddar cheese, red onion, and crumbled bacon.
- Toss with dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is well-coated.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the pea salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. You can make it up to a day in advance for even better flavor.
- Serve:
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. Serve chilled as a side dish and enjoy!
Tips:
- Variations: Add other veggies like diced bell peppers, celery, or cherry tomatoes to make it more colorful and flavorful.
- Make it lighter: You can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayo or use light mayo to cut down on the richness.
- Bacon alternatives: If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add a handful of sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for crunch.
- Add-ins: For an extra burst of flavor, a little mustard or relish in the dressing can work wonders!
This Classic Pea Salad is creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect side to complement grilled meats, sandwiches, or even just as a light and refreshing dish on its own! Enjoy!