Name: Pea Salad Recipes Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 16 oz package frozen sweet peas, thawed and uncooked (or canned peas, drained); 2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped); 4-6 slices bacon (cooked crisp and crumbled (or 1 cup cooked, chopped ham)); 1/2 cup chopped green onion (or regular onion); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp celery seeds (or 1/2 cup chopped celery); Dash of cayenne pepper

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This Pea Salad transforms humble ingredients into a delightful summer recipe with its creamy texture and balanced flavors. Sweet peas provide a fresh base, complemented by crunchy bacon or ham, sharp cheddar, and a tangy mayo-sour cream dressing. Its adaptability allows you to incorporate favorite add-ins like tomatoes or pickles, making it a versatile addition to Cold Salad Recipes. Whether served at a barbecue or Independence Day party, this pea salad recipes easy dish is both comforting and refreshing, earning rave reviews for its ease and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Pea Salad

This Pea Salad is a standout among Cold Salad Recipes for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. Here’s why it’s a summer must-have:

Quick and Simple: Ready in minutes, making it one of the easiest pea salad recipes easy to prepare.
Versatile Dish: Serve as a side, on lettuce leaves, or as a hearty main for a summer recipe.
Customizable: Add bacon, ham, or veggies to suit your taste in these Pea Salad Recipes.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ahead for parties or meal planning with this Pea Salad.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by all ages, perfect for gatherings or holiday meals.

Ingredients for Pea Salad

To make this Pea Salad (serves 6-8), gather these ingredients:

For the Salad:

1 (16 oz) package frozen sweet peas, thawed and uncooked (or canned peas, drained)
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
4-6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled (or 1 cup cooked, chopped ham)
1/2 cup chopped green onion (or regular onion)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp celery seeds (or 1/2 cup chopped celery)
Dash of cayenne pepper

Optional Add-Ins:

Diced tomatoes, green pepper, dill, sweet pickles, pimentos, or water chestnuts

Ingredient Tips:

Peas: Thaw frozen peas in the microwave and drain for convenience; canned peas work in a pinch for this Pea Salad.
Bacon/Ham: Use both for extra flavor or choose one for these Pea Salad Recipes.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds tang; feel free to use other cheeses like colby in this Cold Salad Recipes dish.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo ensures creaminess; Greek yogurt can lighten the dressing for this summer recipe.
Celery Seeds: Add a subtle celery flavor without the crunch, or use fresh celery for texture.

How to Make Pea Salad

Follow these steps to create a delicious Pea Salad:

Prep the Ingredients: Thaw 16 oz frozen peas in the microwave and drain (or use drained canned peas). Chop 2 hard-boiled eggs, 1/2 cup green onion, and 1/2 cup celery (if using). Cook and crumble 4-6 slices bacon or chop 1 cup ham.
Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, mix thawed peas, eggs, bacon or ham, green onion, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and celery (if using fresh).
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp celery seeds, and a dash of cayenne until smooth.
Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and stir gently to coat evenly. Add optional ingredients like tomatoes or pickles if desired. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours to let flavors meld for this Cold Salad Recipes dish.
Serve: Serve chilled on lettuce leaves, as a side, or with crackers for a refreshing summer recipe. Garnish with extra cheese or bacon bits if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1-2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories: ~300 per serving (based on 8 servings)
Servings: 6-8

Macros per Serving: 15g carbs, 10g protein, 22g fat, 3g fiber

Tips for Perfect Pea Salad

Thaw Peas Properly: Microwave briefly and drain to avoid excess water in this Pea Salad.
Chop Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure a balanced texture in these Pea Salad Recipes.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigeration enhances flavor melding for this Cold Salad Recipes dish.
Taste the Dressing: Adjust salt or cayenne for your preferred kick in this summer recipe.
Crisp Bacon: Cook bacon until fully crisp for the best crunch in this salad.

Creative Variations to Try

Customize this Pea Salad with these ideas:

Veggie Boost: Add diced tomatoes, green peppers, or water chestnuts for extra crunch in Cold Salad Recipes.
Fruit Twist: Include halved grapes or diced apples for sweetness in these Pea Salad Recipes.
Lighter Option: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a healthier summer recipe.
Pickle Pop: Stir in chopped dill or sweet pickles for tangy flavor in this Pea Salad.
Protein Swap: Use turkey bacon or cubed chicken instead of ham for variety in Pea Salad Recipes.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

This Pea Salad is a versatile summer recipe that shines with thoughtful presentation. Try these suggestions:

Serve on crisp lettuce leaves for an elegant, low-carb Pea Salad presentation.
Pair with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing summer meal alongside Cold Salad Recipes.
Offer at barbecues or potlucks with tortilla chips or pita for a shareable side.
Present in a clear glass bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients in these Pea Salad Recipes.
Garnish with fresh parsley or extra bacon crumbles for a vibrant summer recipe display.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep this Pea Salad fresh.
Don’t Freeze: Freezing affects the texture of peas and dressing in Cold Salad Recipes.
Make Ahead: Prep a day in advance for parties or meal prep with this summer recipe.
Stir Before Serving: Mix gently to redistribute dressing for consistent flavor.
Best Fresh: Enjoy within 1-2 days for optimal texture in these Pea Salad Recipes.

FAQs About Pea Salad

Can I use canned peas in Pea Salad Recipes?
Yes, drain well to avoid excess moisture in this Pea Salad.

How long does Cold Salad Recipes last?
Refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container for this summer recipe.

Can I freeze Pea Salad?
Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy dressing and peas’ texture.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in summer recipes?
Greek yogurt or a mayo-yogurt mix works for a lighter Pea Salad.

Can I make Pea Salad Recipes without meat?
Yes, skip bacon or ham for a vegetarian version of this Cold Salad Recipes dish.

What’s a good pairing for Pea Salad?
Serve with grilled meats, sandwiches, or cornbread for a complete summer recipe meal.

Can I add other veggies to Pea Salad Recipes?
Diced peppers, tomatoes, or pickles add great flavor and crunch to this Pea Salad.

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Conclusion

This pea salad recipes easy dish is a creamy, refreshing summer recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors and quick prep, it’s a delicious addition to Cold Salad Recipes and Pea Salad Recipes. Make it today and enjoy a fresh, versatile side that everyone will love!