Southern Pea Salad with Creamy Dressing (Print version)
Sweet peas, bacon, and cheddar in a tangy creamy dressing. A classic Southern no-cook side dish for potlucks and picnics.
# Ingredients:
For the salad
01 -
16 oz (450 g) frozen sweet peas, thawed and drained
02 -
6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
03 -
1 cup (120 g) sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
04 -
1/2 small red onion, finely diced
For the dressing
05 -
1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise
06 -
1/3 cup (80 g) sour cream
07 -
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
08 -
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
09 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
10 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
# Instructions:
01 -
Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels, then crumble once cool.
02 -
In a large bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until completely smooth. Taste and adjust the vinegar or sugar to your liking.
03 -
Add the thawed peas, cheddar cubes, red onion, and crumbled bacon to the bowl. Gently fold with a spatula until everything is evenly coated and the peas stay whole.
04 -
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. The dressing thickens and the flavors meld. Stir gently before serving.
# Good to know:
01 -
Best served cold straight from the refrigerator.
02 -
If transporting to a potluck, pack the bowl in ice to keep it safely chilled.