Pea Salad with Bacon, Cheddar, and Red Onion Recipe

Introduction

This refreshing pea salad combines crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a creamy dressing for a perfect balance of flavors. Ready in just 15 minutes, it makes a great side dish for any meal or potluck.

Ingredients

• 8 slices bacon, diced
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 4 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 1/3 cup diced red onion
• 3/4 cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese (similar size to peas)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large nonstick skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, coarse salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the thawed peas, diced red onion, cubed cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon to the bowl. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Step 4: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with extra crispy bacon if desired and serve cold.

Tips & Variations

• For a tangier dressing, add an extra teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.
• Substitute the sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack or feta for a different flavor profile.
• Use fresh peas if in season, blanching them briefly before adding to the salad.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting bacon and adding toasted nuts for crunch.

Storage

Store the pea salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving again. It is best enjoyed chilled and may lose some crispness the longer it sits.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad tastes even better after chilling for at least an hour, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Absolutely. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and cool before adding to the salad.

Pea Salad with Bacon, Cheddar, and Red Onion Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 126 reviews

This vibrant and creamy Pea Salad combines crisp bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and sweet peas tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings, this salad offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors with a satisfying texture.

• Author: luca
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bacon

• 8 slices bacon, diced

Dressing

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Salad

• 4 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 1/3 cup diced red onion
• 3/4 cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese (approximately the same size as the peas)

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it is crispy and browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon pieces to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
2. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, coarse salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Salad Ingredients: To the dressing bowl, add the thawed peas, diced red onion, cubed sharp cheddar cheese, and the cooked crispy bacon. Gently stir the mixture until every ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly. Before serving, garnish with some extra crispy bacon if desired and serve cold.

Notes

• For best flavor, ensure the peas are fully thawed but not mushy to maintain texture.
• Adjust sugar and vinegar quantities to taste for more or less tanginess or sweetness.
• Sharp cheddar cheese cubes should be about pea-sized for balanced bites.
• Can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
• Use low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise for a lighter version.

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