Creamy Pea Salad Recipe: A Perfect Side for Any Occasion
Introduction:
This delectable creamy pea salad is not just a dish; it’s a tradition, a symbol of comfort and togetherness. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this salad has become a staple at family reunions, potlucks, and picnics. The best part? It takes less than ten minutes to whip up, making it a lifesaver for busy hosts and a favorite among guests.
Ingredients:
Pea Salad Dressing:
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Pea Salad:
- 16 ounces frozen sweet baby peas, thawed
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cut into very small cubes
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Add the thawed peas, red onion, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon to the dressing, stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Tips:
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use shredded cheddar cheese or a shredded cheese blend instead of cubed cheese for added convenience.
- Garlic Twist: Enhance the flavor by adding 1-2 cloves of minced garlic or 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder to the dressing.
- Egg Substitute: Replace bacon with hard-boiled eggs or add them for an extra protein boost. To hard-boil eggs perfectly, steam them for 15 minutes for large eggs and plunge them into ice-cold water.
- Frozen Peas: Opt for frozen peas as canned peas tend to become mushy in the salad.
- Quick Fix: If you’re short on time, skip making the dressing and simply add about 1/2 cup of your favorite ranch dressing for a delicious alternative.
- Colorful Variation: For added color and flavor, incorporate finely chopped red bell pepper or pimentos into the salad.
- Meat Swap: Substitute bacon with finely chopped ham or Canadian bacon to switch up the flavors.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy later.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 303kcal
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 402mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 814IU
- Vitamin C: 31mg
- Calcium: 136mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this salad?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences.
Q: How long can I store the leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the ingredients.
Q: Can I make this salad vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon alternatives for a meat-free version of this salad.