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
Scale
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.
