Description

Looking for a timeless side dish to complement your meals? Look no further than this Classic Pea Salad. Bursting with flavor and texture, this salad combines the freshness of peas with the richness of bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, all brought together by a creamy dressing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a comforting dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

½ cup sour cream
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon pepper
4 cups frozen peas, thawed
⅓ cup diced red onion
¾ cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese (approximately the same size as the peas)
8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled

Instructions

1. Prepare Dressing:

In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Add Ingredients:

To the dressing, add peas, diced red onion, cubed sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy crumbled bacon.

3. Gently Stir:

Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

4. Chill:

Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.

5. Garnish:

Just before serving, garnish the salad with a sprinkle of crispy bacon for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 15 min
Cooking Time: None
Total Time: 1 hr 15 min (including chilling)
Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Servings: 8

Enjoyment Tips:

Perfect Pairings: Serve this Classic Pea Salad as a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread. Its versatility makes it a wonderful addition to any meal.
Family Favorite: Bring a touch of nostalgia to your table with this beloved classic recipe. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:

Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, allow the Classic Pea Salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
Garnish with Bacon: Just before serving, garnish the salad with an extra sprinkle of crispy bacon. This adds a deliciously savory touch and enhances the salad’s presentation.
Serve as a Side Dish: This Classic Pea Salad pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes, such as grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as part of a picnic spread. Its versatility makes it a welcome addition to any meal.
Enhance Picnics and Potlucks: Bring this salad to picnics, potlucks, or gatherings with family and friends. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors are sure to impress and make it a popular dish among guests.

Storage Recommendations:

Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover Classic Pea Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.
Avoid Freezing: Due to the creamy dressing and delicate texture of the peas, it’s best not to freeze this salad. Freezing may cause the ingredients to become mushy and lose their flavor.
Stir Before Serving: Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed.
Serve Chilled: When serving leftovers, allow the salad to come to slightly cooler than room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or serve it chilled directly from the refrigerator for the best taste and texture.