Creamy Pea Salad with Cubed Cheddar Cheese: A Nostalgic Delight
Creamy Pea Salad is a timeless dish that adds a touch of nostalgia and bursts of flavor to any meal. Whether you’re gathering for a family dinner, hosting a summer barbecue, or simply aiming to incorporate more veggies into your diet, this salad is a perfect choice. Its delightful combination of sweet peas, crisp vegetables, and creamy cheddar cheese, all coated in a luscious dressing, makes it a favorite for all palates.
I still recall the first time I tasted Creamy Pea Salad at a neighborhood potluck. Initially skeptical, I was quickly won over by the blend of textures and flavors—from the crunch of the vegetables to the richness of the cheese. I couldn’t resist asking for the recipe! Since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, consistently earning rave reviews whenever it’s served. Simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying, it never fails to please a crowd.
Ready to experience it yourself? Here’s how you can whip up this delightful Creamy Pea Salad with Cubed Cheddar Cheese in your own kitchen.
Ingredients and Their Roles
Main Ingredients:
Peas: The star of the salad, peas provide a sweet and slightly starchy base that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Frozen peas are convenient and maintain their sweetness and texture when thawed.
Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch and a slight peppery flavor that balances the sweetness of the peas.
Red Onion: Brings a sharp, tangy bite and a lovely color contrast.
Red Bell Pepper: Contributes sweetness and a crisp texture, as well as vibrant color.
Cheddar Cheese: Provides richness and a creamy texture that complements the crisp vegetables and sweet peas.
Dressing Ingredients:
Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing, it binds the salad together and adds a rich, smooth texture.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Brings acidity that balances the richness of the mayonnaise and the sweetness of the peas.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the following ingredients:
1 (16-ounce) package of frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup cubed cheddar cheese
Ensure even distribution for a balanced bite in every spoonful. The peas should be thawed but not cooked, maintaining their firmness and sweetness.
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the following until smooth and well combined:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed to suit your palate. The dressing should be creamy with a slight tang and a hint of sweetness.
3. Dress It Up:
Pour the prepared dressing over the pea mixture in the large bowl. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently fold the dressing into the salad ingredients until everything is evenly coated. Take care not to mash the peas or vegetables—they should remain crisp and distinct. The key is to coat the ingredients without losing their texture.
4. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, intensifying the deliciousness of the salad. The salad can be made a few hours ahead of time or even the day before, making it a convenient dish for entertaining.
5. Serve and Savor:
Once sufficiently chilled, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Serve it chilled as a delightful side dish or a light main course. Its creamy texture and refreshing flavors make it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. The salad is especially wonderful on a hot day, providing a cool, crisp bite that is both satisfying and refreshing.
Customization Tips
Feel free to personalize this Creamy Pea Salad to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs:
Add Protein:
Diced Ham: Adds a smoky flavor and additional protein.
Cooked Chicken: Provides a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Crispy Bacon: Brings a savory crunch and a rich, smoky taste.
Sweeten It Up:
Shredded Carrots: Adds a sweet, earthy flavor and extra crunch.
Diced Apples: Introduces a crisp, juicy sweetness that pairs well with the creamy dressing.
Go Classic:
Chopped Hard-Boiled Eggs: Adds a traditional touch, enhancing the richness and providing additional protein.
Each addition offers a new dimension to the salad, making it uniquely yours while preserving its essence—a comforting, delicious dish that brings joy with every bite.
Summary
Creamy Pea Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience that bridges generations with its simplicity and delightful flavors. Easy to prepare yet satisfyingly complex in taste, this salad brings together the freshness of peas, the crunch of vegetables, and the creaminess of a well-balanced dressing. Whether enjoyed at a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a festive gathering, this recipe promises to deliver comfort and nostalgia in every spoonful. Embrace the joy of creating and sharing this Creamy Pea Salad, and let it become a cherished part of your dining traditions.
The blend of textures and flavors in this Creamy Pea Salad makes it a standout dish for any occasion. The sweet peas, crisp vegetables, and creamy cheddar cheese all contribute to a harmonious taste experience that is both comforting and refreshing. The dressing, with its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy elements, ties everything together beautifully. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own personal touches, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of Creamy Pea Salad, and relish the joy it brings to your meals.
