Pea Salad

This Classic Creamy Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon is a delightful side dish that perfectly combines sweet peas, crispy Turkey Bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and zesty dressing. Ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, cookouts, BBQs, and baby showers, this easy-to-make salad can be prepared in just minutes and even made up to three days in advance. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This pea salad can be assembled in just 10 minutes, making it a hassle-free addition to your meal.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet peas, savory Turkey Bacon, and tangy dressing creates a delicious flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues or potlucks, this salad complements various main dishes while also standing out on its own.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this salad up to three days in advance, saving you time when entertaining guests.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and appealing colors, this pea salad is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Colander
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
• Whisk: Useful for blending the dressing smoothly ensures every bite is flavorful.
• Colander: Helps in thawing the peas quickly while keeping them well-drained.

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

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 you prepare the dressing.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the thawed peas, chopped Turkey Bacon, cubed cheddar cheese, and diced red onion to the dressing mixture:
1. Gently fold/stir everything together until fully combined.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This helps meld flavors together.
Note: The salad can also be made up to three days in advance for convenience.

Enjoy your creamy pea salad as a refreshing side dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve Pea Salad

Pea salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your pea salad experience.

As a Summer Side Dish

• Accompany Grilled Meats: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or steak, adding a fresh contrast to rich flavors.
• Serve with Sandwiches: A scoop of pea salad makes a great side for any sandwich, especially during lunch gatherings.

At Potlucks and Gatherings

• In Individual Cups: Serve the pea salad in small cups for easy sharing at potlucks, making it both appealing and convenient.
• On a Buffet Table: Place it in a large bowl among other dishes to encourage guests to try it alongside their favorites.

For Picnics and Cookouts

• Packable Portions: The salad travels well, making it an excellent choice for picnics. Just pack it in an airtight container.
• Chilled on Ice: Keep the salad cool by placing the serving bowl over ice to maintain its freshness during outdoor events.

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How to Perfect Pea Salad

To ensure your pea salad is always a hit, consider these simple tips that elevate its taste and presentation.

• Bold Flavors: Add more spices or herbs like dill or parsley for an extra kick.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh peas when in season for the best flavor; if not, frozen petite peas work well too.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
• Adjust Creaminess: Modify the amounts of sour cream and mayonnaise according to your preference for creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Pea Salad

Pairing your pea salad with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds texture and balances the creaminess of the pea salad.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings summer vibes and goes perfectly with grilled meats.
3. Potato Salad: A classic side that offers additional heartiness; try adding herbs for flavor.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide lightness alongside the richness of pea salad.
5. Deviled Eggs: These creamy bites make for a great finger food option and complement many flavors.
6. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread with garlic butter adds a comforting touch that pairs nicely with any summer dish.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit medley cleanses the palate and adds sweetness.
8. Baked Beans: Rich and savory beans provide depth to your meal while balancing lighter salads like pea salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pea Salad, it’s easy to overlook some essential steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using thawed peas: Mixing with fully thawed peas can make the salad watery. Instead, let them slightly thaw for the right texture.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can overpower the flavors. Start with less and add more as needed for balance.
• Skipping chill time: Not chilling the salad before serving can result in a less flavorful dish. Aim for at least an hour in the fridge.
• Ignoring seasoning: Underseasoning can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
• Cutting ingredients too large: Large chunks of ingredients can be hard to mix and eat. Ensure everything is diced or chopped small for even distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Freezing Pea Salad

• Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture of the peas and dressing.
• If necessary, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags for up to a month.

Reheating Pea Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet to warm through; this is not typically recommended as it may change texture.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pea Salad that might help you.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used, but they will need to be blanched first for tenderness.

How long does Pea Salad last?

Pea Salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly.

Can I customize my Pea Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, hard-boiled eggs, or nuts for added flavor and texture.

Is Pea Salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Pea Salad is gluten-free as it contains no gluten-based ingredients.

What’s a good substitute for Turkey Bacon?

You can use regular bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version of your Pea Salad.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Creamy Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon is versatile and perfect for various occasions. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you serve it at a potluck or enjoy it at home, this salad promises delightful flavors that everyone will love!