Indulge in Creamy Delights: Creamy Bacon Pea Pecan Salad Recipe
Elevate your salad game with our delectable Creamy Bacon Pea Pecan Salad recipe. Bursting with vibrant flavors and contrasting textures, this salad is a symphony of sweet, salty, and creamy goodness that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Tender garden peas, crispy bacon, and crunchy pecans are tossed in a luscious dressing made with creamy mayonnaise, tangy sour cream, and zesty Dijon mustard. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, potluck, or simply looking for a refreshing side dish to accompany your meals, this Creamy Bacon Pea Pecan Salad is sure to steal the show. Join us as we unveil the secrets to creating this irresistible salad that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
Salad:
- 1 (10 oz.) package frozen garden peas, cooked and cooled
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, divided
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook the frozen garden peas according to package instructions, then drain and let them cool. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Roughly chop the pecans and set aside.
- Make Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked and cooled peas, crumbled bacon, and chopped pecans.
- Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill: Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with extra bacon crumbles or pecans if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Add Cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, add crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese to the salad.
- Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for added crunch.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add grilled tofu or marinated tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version of this salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh peas if they are in season. Simply blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until tender, then drain and cool before adding to the salad.
- Is there a substitute for sour cream? If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for a tangy flavor.
- Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before adding it to the salad.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the bacon may lose its crispness over time.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to adapt this recipe:
- Use Sugar-Free Sweetener: Replace honey with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Adjust Ingredients: Increase the amount of bacon and pecans to boost the fat content and enhance the flavor without adding extra carbs.
- Serve Over Greens: Instead of using peas, serve the creamy dressing over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a low-carb alternative.
In conclusion, our Creamy Bacon Pea Pecan Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to please your palate. With its creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and crunchy pecans, this salad offers a satisfying balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. So gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in the creamy goodness of our Creamy Bacon Pea Pecan Salad. Bon appétit!
