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Classic Southern Pea Salad


  • Author: Lusine Svetlana

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. 1 (16-ounce) package of frozen sweet peas, thawed (canned peas work too)
  2. 2 eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
  3. 4 to 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled (or 1 cup of cooked and chopped ham, optional)
  4. 1/2 cup of chopped green onions (substitute with regular onions if preferred)
  5. 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to use your favorite cheese)
  6. 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  7. 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  8. 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
  9. 1/2 teaspoon of celery seeds (or 1/2 cup of chopped celery)
  10. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat
  11. 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
  12. 1/2 cup of sour cream

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.