I remember my grandmother making this salad for every family barbecue. The sound of bacon sizzling, the sight of vibrant green peas, and the tangy aroma of the dressing are etched in my memory. It was always a hit, with its creamy texture, crunchy bacon bits, and the slight sharpness of red onion balancing perfectly. Now, as I prepare it for my own family, I feel a connection to those past moments and am excited to share this recipe with you.
Ingredients
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste as needed
4 cups frozen peas, thawed
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 medium red onion, diced
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, cubed small
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and mayonnaise. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Add the granulated sugar and apple cider vinegar to the bowl. These ingredients will give the dressing a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Sprinkle in the salt. Continue to whisk until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Taste the dressing and add more salt if needed to suit your preference.
Add the Peas:
Ensure the frozen peas are completely thawed. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water in a colander.
Gently fold the thawed peas into the dressing mixture. Be careful not to mash them; you want to maintain their shape and texture.
Incorporate the Bacon:
Cook the bacon until it is crispy. This can be done in a skillet on the stove or by baking it in the oven.
Once the bacon is cooked, place it on paper towels to drain excess grease, then crumble it into small pieces.
Add the crumbled bacon to the bowl with the peas and dressing. Stir gently to distribute the bacon evenly throughout the salad.
Add the Red Onion:
Dice half of a medium red onion into small pieces. The red onion adds a wonderful sharpness and crunch to the salad.
Mix the diced red onion into the bowl with the peas, bacon, and dressing. Ensure it is evenly distributed.
Incorporate the Cheddar Cheese:
Cut the cheddar cheese into small cubes. You can use pre-cubed cheese, but freshly cubed cheese will have a better texture.
Gently fold the cheddar cheese cubes into the salad mixture. Make sure each bite gets a bit of that cheesy goodness.
Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to become more cohesive.
Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir.
If desired, garnish with additional crumbled bacon on top for extra crunch and flavor.
Serve the Classic Pea Salad cold and enjoy!
Variations and Substitutions
One of the beautiful aspects of the Classic Pea Salad is its versatility. Here are a few variations and substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
Vegetarian Version: Simply omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon bits or smoked tofu to retain the smoky flavor.
Healthier Option: Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use a light mayonnaise to reduce the calorie and fat content.
Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses such as feta, mozzarella, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Additional Veggies: Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped celery for added crunch and nutrition.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives can be added to enhance the flavor. A pinch of garlic powder or black pepper can also add a bit more depth.
Conclusion
The Classic Pea Salad is a delightful dish that is both simple to make and delicious to eat. Its creamy, tangy dressing perfectly complements the sweet peas, savory bacon, sharp red onion, and rich cheddar cheese. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to meet different dietary needs and preferences, making it a staple for any meal occasion.
Whether you’re making it for a family get-together, a potluck, or just a regular weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to please. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a refreshing yet comforting taste that resonates with nostalgia and warmth. Enjoy making and sharing this timeless salad, and create your own cherished memories around the table.
