Classic Pea Salad With Bacon Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Classic Pea Salad With Bacon. Crisp peas, savory bacon, and a creamy dressing come together to create a dish that's both refreshingly cool and richly satisfying. Every bite brings a contrast of textures and a burst of familiar, nostalgic flavors that feel right at home at any gathering.

this Recipe

I first discovered this timeless salad at a summer potluck, tucked between bowls of coleslaw and deviled eggs. One forkful, and I was hooked. Since then, it’s become my go-to side dish for BBQs, picnics, and busy weeknights when I crave something easy yet delicious. Best of all, it's quick to whip up, incredibly budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Let's dive into why this salad belongs on your table.

Why You'll Love This Classic Pea Salad With Bacon

Get ready to fall head over heels for a salad that's anything but ordinary. Classic Pea Salad With Bacon combines familiar ingredients into something truly special.

First off, it’s wonderfully quick and easy to prepare. You can have this entire dish ready in about 15 minutes — no fancy techniques or equipment required. It’s the perfect last-minute addition to any meal.

You'll also appreciate how budget-friendly it is. Frozen peas, a bit of bacon, and a handful of pantry staples create a generous bowl of salad without stretching your grocery bill.

Another huge plus: this salad is a make-ahead marvel. In fact, letting it chill in the fridge only improves the flavors, making it an ideal dish to prepare the day before a big event.

Finally, its versatility makes it shine. Add shredded cheese, swap the bacon for ham, or toss in a few fresh herbs. You can customize it easily to match your mood or what’s already in your fridge.

Ready to grab your ingredients? Here’s what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Classic Pea Salad With Bacon lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each element plays a vital role in creating that signature balance of creamy, crisp, and savory.

Frozen peas are the star of the show. Choose petite sweet peas for the best flavor and texture. No need to cook them — just a quick thaw will leave them perfectly tender yet firm, preserving their bright green color and fresh taste.

Bacon brings an irresistible smoky crunch to the salad. I recommend frying it until it's deeply golden and crispy, then crumbling it into small pieces. You can even make the bacon ahead of time to save yourself a step on busy days.

Red onion adds a gentle bite and vibrant color. Slice it thinly so that it blends into the salad without overpowering the other flavors. If you’re sensitive to the sharpness of raw onion, a quick soak in cold water mellows it nicely.

Mayonnaise forms the creamy backbone of the dressing. Full-fat mayo gives the richest flavor, but feel free to use a lighter version if you prefer. Some recipes add a bit of sour cream for extra tang, and that’s a delicious twist too.

Cheddar cheese offers a delightful savory note. Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor and cut it into small cubes rather than shredding it — those little nuggets of cheese make every bite a treat.

You won't need any special equipment beyond a large mixing bowl, a skillet for the bacon, and a good knife. Simple tools for a simply delicious salad.

How To Make This Classic Pea Salad With Bacon

Making this Classic Pea Salad With Bacon is as easy as it is satisfying. Here’s how to bring it together.

Start by thawing your peas. Spread them out on a baking sheet or large plate to speed up the process. They should be cold but no longer icy. If you're short on time, a quick rinse under cool water works too; just be sure to drain them thoroughly.

Meanwhile, cook your bacon to crispy perfection. Set a skillet over medium heat, add the bacon slices, and cook until they're evenly crisp. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces once cool.

While the bacon cools, finely dice your red onion and cube the cheddar cheese. Having all your mix-ins prepped and ready makes the assembly quick and seamless.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, a splash of vinegar for brightness, a little sugar to balance the flavors, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple dressing is what ties everything together into creamy goodness.

Finally, add the thawed peas, crumbled bacon, diced onion, and cubed cheddar to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until well coated. Be careful not to mash the peas — you want them to stay whole and vibrant.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The salad will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days.

Storage Options

Classic Pea Salad With Bacon stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or party planning.

Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, though it’s best within the first two when the bacon remains crisp.

If you're prepping ahead for an event, you might want to stir in the bacon just before serving to keep it extra crunchy.

For leftovers, a quick stir before eating helps redistribute the dressing and revive the salad’s creamy consistency. Avoid freezing, as the peas and dressing don't hold up well after thawing.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this salad is how easy it is to tweak it to your liking or based on what's already in your kitchen.

For a tangier bite, substitute half the mayonnaise with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. It lightens up the dressing and adds a fresh zing.

If you’re looking to change up the flavor, swap cheddar for another cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella. Small cubes work best to maintain the classic texture.

For extra crunch and color, consider tossing in diced celery, chopped bell peppers, or even a handful of sunflower seeds.

To make it vegetarian, skip the bacon and add roasted chickpeas or crispy fried onions for that crave-worthy crunch.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own. After all, half the fun of cooking is experimenting and discovering new favorites along the way!

I hope you love this Classic Pea Salad With Bacon as much as my family does. Once you taste it, I have a feeling it will become a staple in your kitchen, too.

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