Southern Pea Salad: Perfect Easy, Quick, Refreshing Side Dish for Spring & Summer
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Recipe Overview
Overview
Southern Pea Salad is a delightful dish that captures the essence of spring and summer gatherings. The combination of sweet English peas and crispy bacon creates a wonderful contrast, while the creamy dressing adds a rich flavor that ties everything together. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to be served at various occasions, from Easter lunch to casual family gatherings.
The use of frozen peas is a game-changer; they retain their sweetness and texture without the need for cooking. This makes the preparation quick and straightforward, allowing you to whip up this dish in no time. The addition of diced red onion and cheddar cheese enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience.
One of the best aspects of this salad is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare it a few days in advance, and it only gets better as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. This makes it a perfect choice for busy hosts who want to impress their guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this Southern Pea Salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Cut eight slices of thick cut bacon into bite-sized chunks using kitchen shears.
Cook the bacon on medium heat until crispy, about 15 minutes.
Tip: Save bacon grease for seasoning vegetables.
Drain the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined bowl.
In a batter bowl, mix together half a cup of sour cream and half a cup of mayonnaise.
Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, half a teaspoon of salt, and a tablespoon of granulated sugar to the dressing and mix until smooth.
Tip: Use full fat sour cream for better flavor.
Mix in half a cup of diced red onion into the dressing.
Tip: Frozen peas work best for this salad as they maintain their texture.
Add one 8 oz block of cubed cheddar cheese to the mixture.
Measure out four cups of frozen sweet peas and add them directly to the mixture without cooking.
Combine the cooked bacon with the salad mixture.
Serve the pea salad as a side dish.
Tip: You can make the salad several days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Tip: If adding boiled eggs, mix them in right before serving to avoid sogginess.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Cream
Ingredient: Eggs
→ Substitution: Chia Egg
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Frozen peas work best in this salad as they maintain a firm texture and sweetness.
- •The salad can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- •Using thick-cut bacon adds a richer flavor and crunch to the salad.
- •The dressing combines sour cream and mayonnaise for a creamy texture.
