Pea Salad with Bacon, Cheddar, and Red Onion Recipe
Introduction
This vibrant pea salad combines crisp bacon, sharp cheddar, and a creamy tangy dressing for a delightful side dish. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family meal.
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon
- 12 oz frozen peas
- 4 oz sharp cheddar, cut into small cubes
- 3 tablespoons chopped red onion
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it is crisp. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the frozen peas, cubed cheddar, chopped red onion, and chopped bacon. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh peas instead of frozen for a sweeter taste and firmer texture in season.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add toasted nuts for crunch.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten the flavors.
- Adjust the amount of sugar or vinegar in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.
Storage
Store the pea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving. Avoid storing for longer periods to maintain the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used. Blanch them briefly in boiling water, then cool in ice water before adding to the salad to maintain their bright color and texture.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Preparing it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to develop, making the salad even more delicious. Just give it a good stir before serving.
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Pea Salad with Bacon, Cheddar, and Red Onion Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A classic, creamy pea salad featuring crisp bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy dressing made with sour cream, mayo, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This cold salad is easy to prepare and perfect as a refreshing side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon
- 12 oz frozen peas
- 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
- 3 tablespoons chopped red onion
Dressing Ingredients
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are crisp. Remove the cooked bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well until smooth.
- Assemble Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the frozen peas (thawed), cubed cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and chopped bacon. Pour the dressing over these ingredients and mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill: Cover the salad and let it stand in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure peas are fully thawed before mixing for best texture.
- Adjust sugar and vinegar quantities to balance sweetness and tanginess according to preference.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead to deepen the flavor.
- For a crispier bacon texture, cook until very crisp before chopping.
- Optionally garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley for added freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pea salad,bacon pea salad,cheddar pea salad,creamy pea salad,cold pea salad,summer side dish,salad with bacon,pea salad recipe
