Cold Pea Salad, A Cool Refreshing Side Dish Perfect for Spring or Easter
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Recipe Overview
Overview
Cold Pea Salad is a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of cafeteria-style dining, particularly from places like Luby’s. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect addition to any spring or summer gathering. The combination of sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
To start, baking the bacon in the oven is a game changer. It cooks evenly and allows for easy crumbling, which is essential for distributing that smoky flavor throughout the salad. The dressing, made with sour cream and mayonnaise, adds a rich creaminess that complements the sweetness of the peas beautifully. A touch of sugar balances the flavors, making each bite satisfying.
As you mix in the red onion and cheddar cheese, the salad transforms into a colorful dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. This Cold Pea Salad is not just a side; it can easily be the star of your picnic table or Easter dinner. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Bake bacon in the oven at 400 degrees for 16 to 20 minutes.
Tip: Baking bacon in the oven ensures uniform cooking and reduces smoke.
Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to catch grease.
Crumble the cooked bacon into bite-sized pieces.
Blend the dressing ingredients together using a whisk.
Tip: A thicker dressing helps it hold onto the other ingredients better.
In a large measuring cup, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Tip: Using red onion adds color and visual appeal to the salad.
Chop about a third of a red onion into very thin slices.
Chop six pieces of bacon into bite-sized pieces.
Tip: Quality control is important; taste your ingredients as you go.
Add 16 ounces of thawed peas to a large bowl.
Add the cooked bacon and chopped red onion to the bowl with peas.
Add an 8-ounce bag of cubed cheddar cheese to the bowl.
Blend all ingredients together gently to avoid smashing the peas.
Tip: The colorful ingredients make the salad visually appealing for serving.
Transfer the mixed salad to a serving bowl.
Tip: The combination of bacon, onion, and peas creates a delicious flavor profile.
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
- •Baking bacon in the oven ensures even cooking and reduces smoke.
- •This salad is a great option for springtime gatherings and picnics.
- •Using red onion adds a pop of color and flavor to the salad.
- •The creamy dressing helps bind the ingredients together, enhancing the overall taste.
