Southern Pea Salad 

Southern Pea Salad is a cherished Southern classic made with sweet peas, creamy dressing, and savory mix-ins like bacon and eggs. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, holidays, and weekday meals alike. This recipe is easy to make, affordable, and packed with comforting flavor in every bite.

ingredients

• 1 (16-ounce) package of frozen sweet peas, thawed (or 1 can of peas, drained)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 4 to 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (or 1 cup chopped cooked ham)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, add the sweet peas, chopped eggs, crumbled bacon (or ham), cheddar cheese, and red onion.
• In a separate small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
• Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to your preference.
• Pour the dressing over the pea mixture.
• Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
• Serve chilled as a side dish.

serving and storage tips

• Chill before serving: For best flavor and texture, always refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld and enhances the creamy consistency.
• Ideal pairings: Southern Pea Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fried chicken, BBQ ribs, burgers, or sandwiches. It also makes a great addition to holiday dinners and potluck tables.
• Leftover storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again.
• Avoid freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the mayo-based dressing and the delicate texture of the peas, which can become watery or mushy after thawing.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep it chilled until ready to serve and give it a quick stir to freshen it up.

variations

• Ham Instead of Bacon
  Swap crumbled bacon with 1 cup of chopped cooked ham for a heartier twist. Ham offers a slightly sweeter and meatier flavor, making the salad more filling and perfect for lunch or dinner sides.
• Add Chopped Pickles or Relish
  Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of chopped dill pickles or sweet pickle relish to give the salad a tangy, zesty bite. This brightens up the richness of the creamy dressing and adds crunch.
• Cheese Variations
  Replace the cheddar cheese with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles. Sharp cheddar brings boldness, while milder cheeses offer a creamier, smoother taste.
• Include Bell Peppers or Celery
  Add ½ cup of diced red bell peppers or celery for extra crunch and color. These vegetables not only boost the texture but also add a fresh element to balance the richness.
• Make It Lighter
  Use light mayonnaise or substitute half of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt to reduce calories and fat while keeping the salad creamy. Greek yogurt also adds a subtle tang that complements the sweet peas.
• Hard-Boiled Egg-Free Version
  Omit the eggs for a simpler version if you’re serving someone with an egg allergy or just want a lighter taste. It still maintains great texture and flavor without them.
• Spice It Up
  Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing for a little heat. You can also use spicy mustard instead of Dijon to give the salad a kick.
• Add Fresh Herbs
  Mix in freshly chopped dill, parsley, or chives for a burst of fresh flavor. These herbs bring brightness and a garden-fresh note to the dish.
• Sweet Touch
  Mix in a handful of sweet corn kernels or diced apple for a hint of natural sweetness that complements the peas beautifully.
• Southern Ranch Style
  Replace the traditional dressing with ½ cup ranch dressing and omit the mustard and sour cream. This gives the salad a more herbaceous, tangy flavor with a creamy ranch twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned peas instead of frozen peas?
   Yes, canned peas can be used. Just be sure to drain them well and gently rinse to reduce excess sodium. They’re softer than frozen peas, so handle them carefully to avoid mushiness.
2. Do I have to thaw the frozen peas first?
   Yes, always thaw frozen peas before mixing. This ensures even blending with other ingredients and avoids watering down the dressing.
3. Can I make Southern Pea Salad ahead of time?
   Absolutely. It can be made up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving.
4. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
   Southern Pea Salad will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s not recommended to freeze.
5. Is it okay to omit the bacon or ham?
   Yes, you can skip the meat for a vegetarian version. The salad is still creamy and flavorful without it.
6. What other vegetables can I add?
   You can add chopped celery, red or green bell peppers, diced carrots, or even corn for added crunch, sweetness, and color.
7. Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
   Yes, Miracle Whip can be used, but it will give the salad a sweeter and tangier taste compared to regular mayonnaise.
8. Is this salad gluten-free?
   Yes, the base recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check your bacon, ham, or condiments for any hidden gluten ingredients.
9. Can I use a different type of mustard?
   Certainly. Dijon mustard adds a smooth tang, but yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard can be used depending on your flavor preference.
10. What can I serve Southern Pea Salad with?
    It pairs well with barbecue, grilled chicken, sandwiches, burgers, or holiday meals. It’s especially popular at summer gatherings, cookouts, and potlucks.

Southern Pea Salad brings simplicity and tradition together in one creamy, flavorful dish. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always a favorite at gatherings. Whether you stick with the classic version or make it your own, this salad is sure to become a repeat recipe in your kitchen.

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