Description
Looking for a fresh and delicious addition to your next meal? Look no further than this Classic Southern Pea Salad recipe. Bursting with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this salad is a beloved staple of Southern cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a taste of home, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) package of frozen sweet peas, thawed (canned peas work too)
- 2 eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 4 to 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled (or 1 cup of cooked and chopped ham, optional)
- 1/2 cup of chopped green onions (substitute with regular onions if preferred)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to use your favorite cheese)
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of celery seeds (or 1/2 cup of chopped celery)
- A sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
Instructions
- Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed sweet peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon or chopped ham (if using), chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Season: Sprinkle in the black pepper, salt, garlic powder, celery seeds (or chopped celery), and a dash of cayenne. Stir thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Dress It Up: In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream until they form a smooth mixture. Pour this dressing over the pea mixture and gently stir to coat all the ingredients.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving. This time allows the flavors to blend together wonderfully.
- Enjoy: Serve this Classic Southern Pea Salad as a refreshing side dish at your next barbecue or family gathering. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s bound to become a new favorite!
Notes
- Presentation Matters: When serving this Classic Southern Pea Salad, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or additional shredded cheese for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Chill for Best Flavor: For optimal taste, refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Serve with Style: This pea salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats, fried chicken, or as part of a picnic spread for a complete Southern-inspired meal.
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, store the pea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2-3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Avoid Freezing: Due to the mayonnaise and sour cream in the dressing, it’s best not to freeze this salad as it can affect the texture and flavor upon thawing.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped crispy celery for added crunch and freshness.