Description
This cool and creamy Pea Salad is a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or light lunches. Packed with sweet green peas, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and crunchy red onions all tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing, it’s a classic side dish that everyone loves. Whether you're looking for quick lunch ideas, summer picnic dishes, or easy dinner sides, this Pea Salad is a must-try comfort food favorite!
Ingredients
4 cups green peas, thawed
1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
1/2 cup red onion, diced
8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Thaw the green peas using cold water or by refrigerating overnight. Pat them dry thoroughly.
2. Dice the red onion, cube the cheddar cheese, and chop the cooked bacon.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Add the peas, cheese, onion, and bacon to the bowl. Gently toss everything to coat without mashing the peas.
5. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, stir gently. If needed, loosen the dressing with a splash of vinegar or mayo.
7. Optional: Garnish with extra bacon bits or fresh chives for presentation.
Notes
Thaw peas naturally in cold water or in the fridge to keep them crisp.
Use thick-cut bacon for better crunch and flavor.
Make it ahead of time—the flavors get even better after a few hours in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: pea salad, summer salad, BBQ side dish, quick side, easy recipe, picnic salad, cold salad, creamy salad