DescriptionThis 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. IngredientsMain Ingredients:4 cups frozen green peas (thawed)6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled1 cup shredded cheddar cheese½ cup red onion, finely choppedCreamy Dressing:¾ cup mayonnaise2 tbsp sour cream1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice1 tsp sugarSeasoning:½ tsp salt½ tsp black pepperOptional Add-ins:2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped1 tbsp fresh dill or parsleyInstructionsPrepare peas: Thaw frozen peas completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture.Cook bacon: Fry bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.Mix dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add peas, bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped red onion.Add dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and gently stir until evenly coated.Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to enhance flavor.Serve: Stir before serving and garnish with extra bacon or herbs if desired.Tips, Notes & Q&AMake 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: 6Calories: ~320 kcal per servingProtein: 10 gFat: 24 gCarbohydrates: 14 g
Creamy Bacon Pea Salad
