Pea Salad

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

June 13, 2025

Updated:

June 13, 2025

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This Pea Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will brighten up any meal. Featuring sweet peas, savory Turkey Bacon, and creamy dressing, this salad is an excellent choice for summer gatherings, potlucks, or casual family dinners. Its simplicity makes it an appealing side dish that can be prepared quickly and even a few days in advance, ensuring you have more time to enjoy with your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet peas and smoky Turkey Bacon creates a delicious contrast that elevates the dish.
Versatile Serving: Whether at a BBQ, potluck, or picnic, this salad fits right in at any event.
Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare it up to three days in advance without losing flavor or freshness.
Crowd Pleaser: With its creamy texture and tasty ingredients, everyone will want seconds!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful Pea Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having these on hand will streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Colander
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients easily without spilling.
Colander: This tool allows you to thaw the frozen peas effectively while draining excess moisture.
Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth consistency for the dressing by thoroughly blending the ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Salad

16 ounces frozen petite peas
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (cubed)
1/2 small red onion (diced)
1/4 pound Turkey Bacon (cooked and finely chopped)

For the Dressing

1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pea Salad

Step 1: Thaw the Peas

Remove peas from the freezer and place them in a colander. Allow them to slightly thaw while preparing the dressing.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together:
* mayonnaise
* sour cream
* sugar
* apple cider vinegar
* salt
* black pepper

This mixture should be smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the thawed peas, Turkey Bacon, cheddar cheese, and red onion. Gently fold or stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the salad and chill it for at least one hour before serving. You can also prepare it up to three days in advance for convenience. Enjoy your delightful Pea Salad!

How to Serve Pea Salad

Pea Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or attending a potluck, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

As a Standalone Dish

This creamy pea salad can be served on its own as a refreshing side. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it filling enough for a light lunch.

Pair with Grilled Meats

Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak. The coolness of the salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled dishes perfectly.

Add to a Buffet Spread

Include pea salad in your buffet lineup at parties or gatherings. It’s easy to scoop and provides a delightful contrast to heartier foods.

Top with Fresh Herbs

Garnish with chopped parsley or dill for an added touch of freshness. This elevates the presentation and adds an extra flavor dimension.

Use as a Sandwich Filling

Spread pea salad between slices of bread for a unique twist on sandwiches. It adds creaminess and crunch, making for an interesting lunch option.

How to Perfect Pea Salad

To ensure your pea salad is always a crowd-pleaser, consider these helpful tips.

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Frozen peas work well, but fresh vegetables can elevate the dish even further.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before mixing it in. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the perfect balance of flavors.
Let It Chill: Allow the salad to chill for at least one hour before serving. This helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or hard-boiled eggs. This keeps the dish exciting and customizable.

Best Side Dishes for Pea Salad

Pea Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. Here are some great options:

Corn on the Cob – A classic summer favorite that adds sweetness and crunch.
Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
Coleslaw – Adds crunch and tanginess, balancing the creaminess of pea salad.
Deviled Eggs – These savory bites are always a hit at gatherings and pair well with pea salad.
Potato Salad – A classic side dish that offers heartiness alongside your light pea salad.
Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing while adding more flavor to the meal.
Fruit Salad – A light, refreshing option that enhances the meal’s overall freshness.
Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies bring smoky notes that contrast nicely with the creamy salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Pea Salad even better. Here are some common errors and how to steer clear of them:

Using thawed peas: Always use frozen petite peas that have been slightly thawed. Fresh peas can alter the texture and flavor.
Skipping the chilling time: Don’t skip chilling the salad for at least one hour. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Overdressing the salad: Be cautious not to add too much dressing. A little goes a long way; you want to coat but not drown the ingredients.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Each ingredient has its own flavor, so tweak as needed.
Making it too far in advance: Although this Pea Salad can be made up to three days ahead, avoid making it too early. Freshness is key!

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep the salad away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.

Freezing Pea Salad

Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
If you must freeze, consider omitting the dressing and only freeze the peas and Turkey Bacon.

Reheating Pea Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it remains moist.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Pea Salad?

Yes! You can add other ingredients like diced bell peppers or hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor and nutrition.

How long does this Pea Salad last?

This salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use regular bacon instead of Turkey Bacon?

Absolutely! Regular bacon can be used if you prefer its flavor, but keep in mind it will increase the fat content.

What should I serve with Pea Salad?

This delicious side pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or other summer dishes at potlucks and BBQs.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Creamy Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon is a delightful addition to any meal. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it versatile for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!