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Creamy Bacon Pea Salad

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Creamy Bacon Pea Salad

Description

This Creamy Bacon Pea Salad is a rich, refreshing, and crowd-pleasing side dish packed with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Sweet green peas are combined with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and crunchy red onions, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks, or quick family meals. This no-cook recipe comes together in minutes and gets even better as it chills, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. It’s a classic comfort salad that’s both simple and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 cups frozen green peas (thawed)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup red onion, finely chopped

Creamy Dressing:

  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sour cream
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tsp sugar

Seasoning:

  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare peas: Thaw frozen peas completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
  2. Cook bacon: Fry bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.
  3. Mix dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add peas, bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped red onion.
  5. Add dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and gently stir until evenly coated.
  6. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to enhance flavor.
  7. Serve: Stir before serving and garnish with extra bacon or herbs if desired.

Tips, Notes & Q&A

  • Make sure peas are fully thawed and dry to avoid watery salad.
  • For extra crunch, add chopped celery or nuts.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
  • Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on taste.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

Q: How long does it last?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I use fresh peas?
A: Yes, just blanch them briefly and cool before using.

Q: Is it keto-friendly?
A: It can be with reduced peas and full-fat dressing adjustments.

Servings & Nutrition (Approx.)

  • Servings: 6
  • Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g

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