Description
This creamy, crunchy pea salad is a timeless side dish that belongs at every summer gathering, potluck, or casual weeknight dinner. Made with sweet green peas, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy dressing, this salad strikes the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s quick to make, easy to prepare in advance, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats, sandwiches, or serving it on its own, this simple dish never fails to satisfy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen peas, thawed and drained
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thaw peas and drain thoroughly. Pat dry with paper towels if necessary.
- In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
- Dice red onion and cube cheddar cheese into small bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the peas, onion, cheese, and most of the bacon. Stir gently to coat everything in the dressing.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes if possible. Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining bacon on top.
Notes
- For a tangier twist, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing.
- If making ahead, store the salad in the fridge and wait to add bacon until serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (bacon)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg