Creamy Pea Salad: A Refreshing and Flavorful Side Dish
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful Creamy Pea Salad recipe. Bursting with freshness and creamy goodness, this salad is the perfect accompaniment to any meal or picnic spread. Sweet baby peas, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy dressing come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of this classic salad, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook’s notes, variations, and even keto-friendly and low-carb versions. Let’s dive into the world of vibrant salads and elevate your side dish game!
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 small mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed sweet baby peas, finely chopped red onion, sharp cheddar cheese cubes, and crispy chopped bacon.
- Add the Dressing:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pea salad mixture in the bowl.
- Toss to Combine:
- Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill Before Serving:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pea salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once chilled, give the salad a final toss before serving. Garnish with additional bacon bits or chopped chives if desired. Serve cold and enjoy the refreshing flavors!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Peas:
- While fresh peas are ideal if in season, frozen sweet baby peas work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them before using.
- Cheese Options:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as crumbled feta, shredded Gouda, or diced Swiss cheese, to add variety to the salad.
- Additional Add-Ins:
- Customize your pea salad by adding extra ingredients like diced hard-boiled eggs, chopped celery, sliced almonds, or diced red bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Vegetarian Option:
- Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version of the salad. You can add extra cheese or nuts for added protein and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make Creamy Pea Salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 1 day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Q: How long will Creamy Pea Salad last in the refrigerator? A: Creamy Pea Salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the dressing? A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in the dressing for a lighter option. Just note that Greek yogurt may impart a slightly tangier flavor.
Q: Can I make a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this salad? A: Absolutely! For a keto-friendly or low-carb version, you can use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise, and omit the apple cider vinegar. You can also reduce the amount of onion or use a milder variety to lower the carb count.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
- Full-Fat Ingredients:
- Opt for full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise to keep the salad keto-friendly. Avoid low-fat or reduced-fat versions, as they may contain added sugars.
- Adjust the Onion:
- Reduce the amount of onion or use a milder variety such as green onion to lower the carb content of the salad.
- Check for Hidden Sugars:
- Be mindful of hidden sugars in store-bought mayonnaise or bacon. Look for sugar-free or keto-friendly options when possible.
Elevate your side dish game with the vibrant and flavorful Creamy Pea Salad, a refreshing addition to any summer meal or gathering. With its creamy dressing, crunchy bacon, and sweet peas, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether served alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own, this classic salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So whip up a batch today and delight in the fresh, vibrant flavors of Creamy Pea Salad!
