A Perfect Blend of Sweet, Savory, and Crunchy

If you’re searching for a dish that combines bold flavors, creamy textures, and a vibrant presentation, look no further than this Creamy Pea Salad with Bacon. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a quick side dish, this salad is sure to be a hit with everyone. The combination of crisp bacon, sweet peas, tangy dressing, and a touch of cheddar makes this recipe an irresistible crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to whip up a flavorful dish with minimal effort but maximum flavor payoff. Let’s dive into what makes this salad such a standout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, this salad comes together in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute side dish.
Versatile and Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
A Crowd Favorite: The irresistible combination of bacon, cheese, and peas in a creamy dressing is a guaranteed hit.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, making it an excellent option for prepping ahead of time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dressing:

½ cup sour cream
⅓ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon white vinegar
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad:

4 cups frozen sweet peas (thawed)
12 strips bacon (cooked until crisp, then finely chopped or crumbled)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ medium red onion (peeled and diced)

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Dressing:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Cover and refrigerate the dressing while you prepare the rest of the salad.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red onion.
Combine and Chill:
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything together until well coated. Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for 2–3 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Small mixing bowl for the dressing
Large mixing bowl for assembling the salad
Whisk for mixing the dressing
Sharp knife and cutting board for dicing the onion
Frying pan for cooking the bacon
Measuring cups and spoons

Tips and Tricks for Success

Use Fresh Ingredients: While frozen peas are convenient, you can substitute with fresh peas for an even brighter flavor. Just blanch them briefly before using.
Shortcut for Bacon: Save time by using pre-cooked bacon bits, but ensure they’re high-quality for the best flavor.
Add Extra Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for additional texture.
Make It Lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream or mayonnaise to reduce calories while keeping the creaminess.
Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar works wonderfully, feel free to swap it with parmesan, feta, or gouda for a unique twist.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add toasted sunflower seeds or crispy roasted chickpeas for a plant-based crunch.
Low-Carb Version: Replace the sugar in the dressing with a sugar substitute to make this salad keto-friendly.
Add Some Herbs: Fresh dill or parsley can elevate the flavor and add a touch of green.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Pro Tip: If the salad seems a bit dry after storing, mix in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or sour cream to refresh it.

Food and Drink Pairings

Main Dish Pairings: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or salmon. It’s also an excellent companion for barbecue dishes like ribs or pulled pork.
Drinks: Serve with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp sparkling lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this salad tastes even better after it has chilled for a few hours. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for parties and gatherings.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas are a great option. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water and cool them in ice water before using.

What can I substitute for bacon?

For a vegetarian version, try toasted nuts, roasted chickpeas, or plant-based bacon alternatives.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged items like bacon to ensure they don’t contain gluten.

Call to Action

There you have it—the ultimate Creamy Pea Salad with Bacon! It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your fellow food lovers and subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking! 🌟

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