Classic Southern Pea Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 6

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Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen peas, thawed (or fresh peas, blanched)

• ½ cup red onion, finely diced

• ½ cup celery, finely diced

• ½ cup cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded

• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 slices)

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• If using frozen peas, thaw them by placing them in a colander and running cold water over them. Drain well.

• Finely dice the red onion and celery.

• Cook and crumble the bacon (if not using pre-cooked).

• Cube or shred the cheddar cheese.

• Hard-boil the eggs (if using), cool, peel, and chop.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Mayonnaise

• Sour cream

• Apple cider vinegar

• Dijon mustard

• Sugar (if using)

• Garlic powder

• Salt

• Black pepper

3. Combine the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together:

• Thawed peas

• Diced red onion

• Diced celery

• Cheddar cheese

• Crumbled bacon

• Chopped hard-boiled eggs (if using)

Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir gently until everything is well coated.

4. Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Garnish with extra bacon or cheese if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values based on 6 servings.

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Tips & Variations

✅ Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, so prepare it a day in advance.
✅ Add Crunch: Toss in some chopped pecans or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
✅ Lighter Version: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use light mayonnaise.
✅ Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.

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Final Thoughts

This Classic Southern Pea Salad is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy, tangy dressing and satisfying mix of textures. It’s quick to prepare, requires no cooking (aside from optional bacon and eggs), and is perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a summer BBQ or as a side for Sunday dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite!