If you’re craving a fresh, flavorful, and utterly satisfying side dish, this Southern Pea Salad Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with sweet peas, sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and a tangy creamy dressing, it combines the very best of Southern comfort flavors in a cool, vibrant salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re bringing it to a summer potluck or serving it alongside your favorite grilled dishes, this salad is a total crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Southern Pea Salad Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together in harmony to create a dish that’s fresh, creamy, crunchy, and full of punchy flavors. Each component plays a role, from the sweet peas providing the base, to the bacon adding smoky depth.
- Frozen green peas, 3 cups: Thawed peas add a naturally sweet and tender base with a lovely pop of green color.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, ½ cup cubed: Adds creamy, tangy richness and a nice contrast in texture.
- Bacon, ½ cup cooked and crumbled: Brings smoky, savory notes and a satisfying crunch.
- Red onion, â…“ cup finely chopped: Provides a sharp bite that brightens the salad.
- Celery, ¼ cup finely chopped: Offers refreshing crunch and subtle grassy flavors.
- Mayonnaise, ½ cup: Creates the creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together.
- Apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon: Adds a zingy tartness that balances the richness.
- Sugar, 1 teaspoon: A hint of sweetness to round out the dressing’s flavors.
- Salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances all the ingredients naturally.
- Black pepper, ¼ teaspoon: Gives a gentle kick without overpowering the salad.
How to Make Southern Pea Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by placing the thawed green peas in a large bowl, then add the cubed sharp cheddar, crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, and celery. Mixing these together creates a colorful and textural base that makes every bite exciting.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of the salad, delivering that delicate balance of tanginess and sweetness that makes each spoonful irresistible.
Step 3: Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss to ensure every ingredient gets a perfect coating of that luscious sauce. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour; this wait is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Final Stir and Serve
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute any dressing that has settled. Now, it’s ready to shine as a delicious side that will impress everyone at your table.
How to Serve Southern Pea Salad Recipe
Garnishes
You can elevate the presentation and flavor by adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. A dash of smoked paprika or some extra crumbled bacon can also bring that finishing touch that delights both the eyes and the palate.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs incredibly well with grilled meats like BBQ chicken or ribs, juicy burgers, or even crispy fried chicken. It offers a cool, creamy contrast that complements hearty, savory mains perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Southern Pea Salad Recipe in individual mason jars at a picnic or potluck, or spoon it into fresh avocado halves for a unique appetizer. It also works wonderfully layered in a clear trifle bowl to show off its vibrant colors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the flavors and textures.
Freezing
Because of the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, freezing this salad is not recommended, as it can alter the texture and flavor negatively after thawing.
Reheating
Southern Pea Salad Recipe is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. If it’s become too chilled in the fridge, bring it to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas can be used and will provide a lovely sweetness and delicacy to the salad. Just make sure to blanch them briefly to maintain their bright color and tenderness.
Is there a lighter version of this salad?
Yes, for a lighter take, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will reduce fat but keep the salad creamy and tangy.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Feel free to get creative! Diced pickles or chopped boiled eggs make excellent additions that add more flavor and texture to the dish.
How far in advance can I prepare the salad?
You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just mix the dressing and ingredients together and allow plenty of time to chill so the flavors develop fully.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Southern Pea Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Southern Pea Salad Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a burst of flavor, color, and Southern charm to their table. It’s easy to make, packed with delicious ingredients, and always a hit with family and friends. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to side dishes in no time!
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Southern Pea Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic Southern Pea Salad featuring tender green peas, sharp cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon tossed in a creamy tangy dressing. This refreshing and easy no-cook side dish is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a cold complement to your meals.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen green peas, thawed
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- â…“ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together thawed green peas, cubed sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled cooked bacon, finely chopped red onion, and celery until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss all ingredients until they are evenly coated with the dressing, being careful not to mash the peas.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend and develop.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the salad gently once more to redistribute dressing. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add creaminess.
- Add chopped boiled eggs or diced pickles for extra texture and flavor variations.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be made ahead of time for convenience.
