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Classic Pea Salad Recipe

Classic Pea Salad Recipe

  • Author: Anna
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Skillet and mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Contains dairy and pork; can be modified for vegetarian or dairy-free diets

Description

This Classic Pea Salad Recipe is a refreshing and vibrant side dish combining crisp peas, crunchy bacon, and creamy tangy dressing. Quick to prepare and bursting with contrasting textures and flavors, it’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners. The mix of fresh ingredients and a perfectly balanced dressing creates a colorful, tasty salad that complements a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 3 cups frozen peas, thawed and drained
  • 6 slices bacon
  • ½ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup shredded or cubed cheddar cheese

Dressing Ingredients

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peas: Thaw frozen peas completely by refrigerating overnight or rinsing under cold water. Drain thoroughly to prevent sogginess in the salad.
  2. Cook the Bacon: Cook bacon until crisp using a skillet or oven. Let cool, then crumble into bite-sized pieces to add smoky crunch.
  3. Chop Vegetables and Cheese: Finely dice the red onion and shred or cube the cheddar cheese. Set aside for mixing.
  4. Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold peas, bacon, onion, and cheese into the dressing until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld before serving. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for extra color and aroma.

Notes

  • Ensure peas are well drained to avoid watering down the salad.
  • Cook bacon thoroughly for the best texture contrast.
  • Soak diced onion in cold water for 10 minutes to soften sharpness, if desired.
  • Prepare salad a day in advance to enhance flavor complexity.
  • Add sugar gradually, tasting to achieve preferred sweetness balance.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg

Keywords: pea salad, classic pea salad, bacon pea salad, summer salad, easy side dish, picnic salad

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Find it online: https://homeasyrecipes.com/classic-pea-salad-recipe/