Classic Southern Pea Salad

Description: This Classic Southern Pea Salad is a creamy, savory side dish that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. Made with sweet peas, crunchy vegetables, cheese, and a tangy dressing, it’s a staple at potlucks, barbecues, or as a comforting family side dish.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups frozen peas, thawed and drained
  • ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup celery, diced
  • ½ cup diced cheddar cheese (or shredded if preferred)
  • ¼ cup crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Dressing:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Peas

Begin by thawing the frozen peas. The easiest way to do this is to place them in a colander and run cold water over them until they are no longer frozen but still retain their vibrant green color. Once thawed, it’s crucial to drain them thoroughly. Excess moisture can make the salad watery, diluting the flavors of the dressing and other ingredients. After draining, gently pat the peas dry with a paper towel to remove any remaining water. This step ensures that the peas will absorb the creamy dressing properly and maintain the desired texture of the salad.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and dried peas with the other fresh ingredients. Add the finely chopped red onion, which brings a sharp, pungent flavor and a pop of color to the salad. Follow with the diced celery, providing a refreshing crunch and subtle vegetal note. Incorporate the cheddar cheese, either diced or shredded, depending on your preference. The cheese adds a creamy, rich element that complements the sweetness of the peas and the tanginess of the dressing. Finally, sprinkle in the crumbled crispy cooked bacon. Bacon introduces a smoky, savory depth that elevates the entire salad, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate, small bowl, prepare the dressing that will bind all the ingredients together. Start with the mayonnaise, which forms the creamy base of the dressing. Add the sour cream for an extra layer of tanginess and richness, creating a more complex flavor profile. Incorporate the apple cider vinegar, providing a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream. Next, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity and enhance the overall sweetness of the salad. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Whisk all the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well combined, ensuring that there are no lumps.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture of peas, red onion, celery, cheddar cheese, and bacon in the large mixing bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the peas to become mushy. Once the salad is well combined, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld together and intensify. Chilling the salad also helps to create a more cohesive texture, as the ingredients absorb the dressing and the flavors harmonize.

Step 5: Serve

Once the salad has chilled sufficiently, it’s time to serve. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to add a touch of freshness and visual appeal. The parsley provides a bright, herbaceous note that complements the other flavors in the salad. Serve the Classic Southern Pea Salad chilled as a side dish for any meal. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as part of a buffet spread. The cool, creamy salad provides a refreshing contrast to richer, heavier dishes, making it a versatile and welcome addition to any table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Classic Southern Pea Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a nostalgic comfort food that evokes memories of family gatherings and summer barbecues. You’ll love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking and preparation time. It’s also highly adaptable, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your personal preferences. The combination of sweet peas, crunchy vegetables, creamy cheese, and smoky bacon creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and addictive. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing recipe for a special occasion, this Classic Southern Pea Salad is sure to be a hit.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Barbecues: Perfect alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, or ribs.
  • Potlucks: A crowd-pleasing dish that travels well and is always a hit.
  • Sandwiches: Serve as a side with your favorite sandwiches for a complete lunch.
  • Holiday Meals: A refreshing addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner.
  • Salad Bar: Include in a salad bar for a customizable and healthy meal option.

Tips:

  • Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for gatherings. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
  • Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a twist. Experiment with different cheese varieties to find your favorite combination.
  • Bacon Substitute: Use turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian option. For a smoky flavor without bacon, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the dressing.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon for a delicious vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
  • Dressing Variations: For a lighter dressing, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly watery over time, so stir before serving.
  • Herb Additions: Add fresh dill, chives, or mint for a fresh, herbaceous flavor. A small amount of each can elevate the salad.
  • Nut Addition: Add toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: None (except for cooking the bacon) Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes chill time)

Nutritional Information:

(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving
  • Protein: 8-10 grams per serving
  • Sodium: 400-500 mg per serving

Conclusion

The Classic Southern Pea Salad is a timeless recipe that continues to delight with its simple yet satisfying flavors. Its creamy texture, combined with the crunch of fresh vegetables and the savory notes of bacon, makes it a perfect side dish for any occasion. This recipe is a testament to the fact that great food doesn’t always require complex ingredients or elaborate techniques. It’s a versatile, adaptable, and utterly delicious dish that will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or simply as a quick and easy side for a weeknight meal, this Classic Southern Pea Salad is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.

Questions and Answers About This Recipe

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! In fact, making the salad ahead of time is highly recommended. It allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive dish. You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Q2: What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?

A: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this salad, you can certainly experiment with other varieties. Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack are all great alternatives that offer slightly different flavors and textures. If you prefer a sharper flavor, consider using a sharp cheddar cheese. For a milder option, Monterey Jack is an excellent choice.

Q3: I’m a vegetarian. Can I still make this salad?

A: Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this salad by simply omitting the bacon. The salad will still be delicious and satisfying without the bacon. If you want to add a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the dressing.

Q4: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

A: While fresh peas can be used, frozen peas are often preferred because they are readily available year-round and retain their sweetness and texture well. If you do use fresh peas, be sure to blanch them briefly in boiling water and then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This will help to preserve their color and texture.

Q5: How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?

A: This salad will typically last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container. However, it’s important to note that the salad may become slightly watery over time as the vegetables release moisture. Stir the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing and maintain the desired texture.

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