Creamy Bacon Cheddar Pea Salad

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 4 cups frozen green peas (thawed)

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes or shredded

• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped

• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Dressing

• ¾ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Green Peas

1. Place frozen peas in a large bowl.

2. Allow them to thaw completely.

3. Drain any excess water.

4. Pat gently with paper towels if necessary.

5. Make sure the peas are dry so the dressing stays thick and creamy.

Important: Do not cook the peas. They should remain firm, sweet, and slightly crisp.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Place bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Cook until golden brown and crispy.

3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Allow to cool completely.

5. Crumble into small pieces.

Reserve a little bacon for the final garnish.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese and Onion

1. Cut cheddar cheese into small bite-sized cubes or shred it.

2. Finely chop the red onion.

3. Chop fresh parsley.

4. If using hard-boiled eggs, peel and chop them into small pieces.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:

• Mayonnaise

• Sour cream

• Apple cider vinegar

• Dijon mustard

• Sugar

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Black pepper

• Salt

Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Step 5: Combine the Salad Ingredients

1. Place thawed peas in a large mixing bowl.

2. Add cheddar cheese.

3. Add chopped red onion.

4. Add chopped boiled eggs, if using.

5. Add most of the crumbled bacon.

6. Sprinkle in fresh parsley.

Gently toss everything together.

Step 6: Add the Dressing

1. Pour the creamy dressing over the pea mixture.

2. Use a large spoon or spatula to fold everything together.

3. Make sure the peas, cheese, onions, and bacon are evenly coated.

4. Avoid mixing too aggressively because the peas can become crushed.

Step 7: Chill the Salad

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or an airtight lid.

2. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours.

3. This allows the flavors to blend and the dressing to become even more delicious.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the salad from the refrigerator.

2. Give it a gentle stir.

3. Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon over the top.

4. Add extra cheddar cheese and fresh parsley.

5. Serve chilled.

Helpful Tips for the Best Pea Salad

• Use frozen peas instead of canned peas for better texture.

• Thaw and drain peas completely before mixing.

• Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheesy flavor.

• Cook bacon until crispy for the best crunch.

• Red onion adds a delicious mild sharpness.

• Chill before serving to develop the flavors.

• Add bacon just before serving if you want it extra crispy.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving, based on 8 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Nut information: This recipe contains no intentionally added nuts. Check mayonnaise, mustard, and other packaged ingredients for allergen warnings and possible cross-contamination.

Other allergen information:

• Contains dairy (cheddar cheese and sour cream).

• Contains eggs (mayonnaise and optional boiled eggs).

• Contains pork if using traditional bacon.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pea salad pairs wonderfully with:

1. Grilled chicken.

2. Roasted beef.

3. BBQ ribs.

4. Grilled burgers.

5. Baked potatoes.

6. Garlic bread.

7. Roasted vegetables.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freezing is not recommended because the creamy dressing may separate.

• Serving: Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

• Food safety: Do not leave the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour in temperatures above 90°F (32°C).

Final Result

Enjoy this irresistible Creamy Bacon Cheddar Pea Salad with sweet green peas, crispy smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, crunchy red onions, and a delicious homemade creamy dressing.

It is colorful, refreshing, rich, and incredibly easy to prepare. A perfect crowd-pleasing side dish for every occasion!