Classic Pea Salad

 

# Classic Pea Salad

A creamy, crunchy, and flavorful side dish that's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, holiday meals, and family gatherings.

## Why You'll Love This Recipe

* Quick and easy to make

* Uses simple pantry ingredients

* Perfect make-ahead side dish

* Sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy in every bite

* Great for picnics, cookouts, and holiday tables

## Ingredients

* 4 cups frozen peas, thawed

* 1 cup mayonnaise

* ½ cup sour cream

* 1–2 teaspoons sugar

* 1–2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

* Salt, to taste

* 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

* 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

* ¼ cup finely diced red onion (optional)

## Instructions

### 1. Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together:

* Mayonnaise

* Sour cream

* Sugar

* Apple cider vinegar

* Salt

Mix until smooth and creamy.

**Tip:** Taste the dressing and adjust the sugar or vinegar to achieve your preferred balance of sweetness and tang.

### 2. Add the Salad Ingredients

Add:

* Thawed peas

* Crumbled bacon

* Shredded cheddar cheese

* Red onion (if using)

Gently fold everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.

**Tip:** Stir carefully to keep the peas whole and maintain the salad's appealing texture.

### 3. Chill

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least **1 hour** before serving.

**Tip:** Chilling overnight develops even deeper flavor and improves the texture.

### 4. Serve

Give the salad a gentle stir before serving.

For extra presentation, garnish with:

* Additional crumbled bacon

* Extra shredded cheddar cheese

* Chopped fresh parsley

## Variations

### Ranch Pea Salad

Replace the vinegar with 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning for a tangy ranch flavor.

### Sweet Pea Salad

Add ¼ cup diced cheddar cubes and a handful of dried cranberries.

### Crunchy Pea Salad

Mix in chopped celery, sunflower seeds, or chopped pecans.

### Lighter Version

Substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.

## Storage

* Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to **3 days**.

* Do not freeze, as the dressing may separate and the peas can become mushy after thawing.

## Recipe Summary

* **Prep Time:** 15 minutes

* **Chill Time:** 1 hour

* **Total Time:** 1 hour 15 minutes

* **Servings:** 6–8

This Classic Pea Salad delivers a delicious combination of sw

eet peas, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy dressing, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser for any occasion.