Classic Creamy Pea Salad
Introduction
Classic Creamy Pea Salad is a timeless dish that brings together the sweetness of green peas with a creamy, tangy dressing, crisp vegetables, and salty bites of cheese and bacon. Loved for its bright flavor and contrasting textures, it’s a staple at summer barbecues, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Pea salad has its roots in Midwestern American cuisine, often associated with community dinners, church picnics, and family reunions. Its popularity grew in the mid-20th century with the rise of mayonnaise-based salads. Over time, it became a nostalgic comfort dish — easy to make, budget-friendly, and a creative way to enjoy frozen or canned peas year-round.
Its appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility, and while some may see it as retro, it’s making a comeback as a cherished, crowd-pleasing side dish.
Ingredients Quantity
Serves: 6–8
- Frozen green peas – 4 cups (thawed, not cooked)
- Red onion – ½ small, finely diced
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, diced or shredded
- Cooked bacon – 6 slices, crumbled
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup
- Sour cream – ¼ cup
- Apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon
- Granulated sugar – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Optional Additions
- Hard-boiled eggs – chopped, for added protein
- Chopped celery – for crunch
- Diced pickles or relish – for tanginess
- Greek yogurt – replace sour cream for a lighter version
- Sunflower seeds or almonds – for a nutty crunch
- Fresh herbs – such as dill or chives for brightness
Tips for Success
- Thaw the peas properly: Place them in a colander and run under cool water to thaw quickly, then pat dry. This prevents the salad from becoming watery.
- Use quality mayonnaise: It forms the base of your dressing—choose one with a flavor you enjoy.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Balance flavors: Taste and adjust sugar, vinegar, and salt to achieve the right mix of sweet, tangy, and savory.
- Instructions
- Prepare peas: Thaw peas by rinsing under cold water. Drain well and gently pat dry with a paper towel.
- Mix dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine ingredients: Add peas, diced red onion, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve: Give it a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.
Description
This salad is a creamy, colorful, and crave-worthy side dish. Bright green peas pop with sweetness and crunch, while the red onions add a bit of bite. Sharp cheddar and smoky bacon round out the flavors with richness and salt. The tangy-sweet dressing ties everything together for a balanced and satisfying dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium:
- Conclusion
Classic Creamy Pea Salad is more than just a retro side dish — it’s a flavorful, refreshing, and comforting part of American culinary tradition. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always a hit at gatherings. Whether served next to grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread, its balance of textures and flavors is hard to beat.
Recommendation
Make this salad your own! Start with the classic base, then experiment with additions like chopped eggs, seeds, or herbs. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish and travels well, making it ideal for potlucks or weekly meal prep. For a lighter version, swap some of the mayo for Greek yogurt or use turkey
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this salad leans indulgent, it can still be part of a health-conscious lifestyle. Peas are rich in fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein. By adjusting the dressing or incorporating nutrient-dense ingredients like seeds and fresh herbs, you can tailor the salad to align with your health goals without sacrificing flavor.
Indulgence doesn’t have to mean guilt — and this creamy pea salad is a delicious reminder that balance is key.
