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Welcome to your new favorite side dish! This easy pea salad with bacon and cheddar is delightfully creamy, savory, and perfectly sweet. It’s a cinch to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor impact. Whether you’re a busy parent or a beginner cook, you’ll love how quickly this simple recipe comes together. Get ready to impress everyone with this fantastic dish!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Pea Salad
This delicious recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen for many reasons:
- Incredibly Quick & Easy: You can whip up this creamy side dish in under 15 minutes of active prep time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Potluck & BBQ Star: This easy pea salad is always a hit at gatherings, picnics, and backyard BBQs. It travels well and tastes even better chilled.
- Irresistible Flavor Profile: Enjoy the perfect balance of smoky bacon, tangy cheddar, crisp peas, and a sweet, creamy dressing. It’s truly addictive!
- Common, Affordable Ingredients: You likely have most of these simple staples in your pantry already. This makes it a budget-friendly option.
- Beginner-Friendly: With step-by-step instructions and minimal cooking, anyone can master this delightful easy pea salad.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your next favorite side dish:
- 8 slices bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 4 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1/3 cup diced red onion
- 3/4 cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese (approximately the same size as the peas)
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with many of these components to tailor this easy pea salad to your taste.
For the peas, frozen is most convenient, but you can certainly use fresh shelled peas if they are in season. Just blanch them briefly until tender-crisp. If bacon isn’t your preference, try turkey bacon for a leaner option or a plant-based bacon alternative for vegetarians. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses; a mild cheddar, Colby, or even a smoked gouda would be delicious. For a lighter dressing, substitute some sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. You can also add fresh dill or chives for an herbaceous touch. If red onion is too strong, use finely minced green onions or omit it entirely.
Equipment
You won’t need many specialized tools to create this delightful dish.
Grab a large nonstick skillet for cooking the bacon until perfectly crispy. A spacious mixing bowl will comfortably accommodate all the salad ingredients. You’ll also need a sturdy whisk to perfectly combine the creamy dressing. Finally, a slotted spoon is essential for draining the bacon fat efficiently.
Instructions
Creating this easy pea salad is straightforward and quick. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time.
In a large nonstick skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. With a slotted spoon, transfer to a paper-towel lined plate to drain. This ensures your bacon bits are perfectly crunchy in your easy pea salad.
Put sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, coarse salt, and pepper in a large bowl; whisk to combine. Make sure the dressing is smooth and well-integrated.
To the bowl, add peas, red onion, cheddar cheese, and the cooked crispy bacon; gently stir to coat completely. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed within the creamy dressing for the best flavor in your easy pea salad.
Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Garnish with some extra crispy bacon if desired and enjoy this wonderful easy pea salad cold.
Pro Tips for the Best Pea Salad
Elevate your easy pea salad with these expert tips for perfect results.
Always allow adequate chilling time, preferably 2-3 hours, for the flavors to fully develop and meld. Ensure your frozen peas are completely thawed and well-drained before adding them to the bowl. Excess water can make your dressing runny. Avoid overmixing the salad once all ingredients are combined; gentle stirring preserves the pea texture. Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust seasoning like salt, pepper, or sugar to your personal preference. For superior crunch, cook your bacon until extra crispy.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This versatile easy pea salad is a crowd-plaser for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy easy pea salad is absolutely ideal for picnics, potlucks, and backyard BBQs. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a perfect companion. It also makes a fantastic light lunch side dish, especially during warmer months. Pair it wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or pork, or alongside your favorite sandwiches and burgers.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover easy pea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. This salad is excellent for making ahead, as the flavors deepen beautifully with time. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Variations
Feel free to customize your easy pea salad with these tasty additions. Add thinly sliced celery for extra crunch, or water chestnuts for a unique texture. Toasted pecans or slivered almonds also provide a delightful nutty element. Experiment with different cheeses beyond cheddar, such as Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta for a tangier twist. Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped dill, parsley, or chives for a burst of freshness. For a sugar-free option, substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative or simply omit it for a less sweet profile. This allows you to personalize your easy pea salad every time.
Nutrition Information
This easy pea salad offers a delightful balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Peas contribute fiber and vitamins, while the cheese adds calcium. Bacon provides protein and a rich, savory flavor. The creamy dressing contributes to the overall calorie count.
For detailed information on the nutritional benefits of green peas, including their fiber and vitamin content, check out this article from Healthline on why green peas are healthy and nutritious.
Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. This information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional nutritional advice.
| Per Serving (1/3 cup) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200-250 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15-20g |
| Saturated Fat | 6-8g |
| Cholesterol | 30-40mg |
| Sodium | 250-300mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10-15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2-3g |
| Total Sugars | 5-7g |
| Protein | 6-8g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to common questions about making this delightful easy pea salad.
Q: Can fresh peas be used in this recipe?
A: Yes, absolutely! If using fresh peas, blanch them quickly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and chill before adding to the salad.
Q: How long does pea salad last in the refrigerator?
A: When stored in an airtight container, this creamy easy pea salad will remain fresh and delicious for 3 to 4 days.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: This salad is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, as the flavors meld and improve with chilling.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as written, this easy pea salad recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check your specific brands of bacon and dressing ingredients.
Q: How can I make this pea salad vegetarian?
A: Simply omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative or toasted nuts for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
You now have the perfect recipe for a truly unforgettable side dish! This easy pea salad with bacon and cheddar is proof that simple ingredients can create spectacular flavors. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit at any table. Give this delightful easy pea salad a try tonight and watch it become an instant family favorite. We love hearing from you, so please share your thoughts and comments below!
