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Bacon Pea Salad: A Creamy, Crunchy Classic Made Step by Step

Bacon Pea Salad is a delicious side dish that combines the freshness of sweet green peas with the smoky richness of crispy bacon. Loved for its balance of textures and flavors, this salad is a perfect addition to family gatherings, picnics, barbecues, holiday dinners, or even a simple weeknight meal. The combination of creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, savory bacon, and tender peas creates a dish that is both comforting and refreshing.

Unlike traditional leafy salads, Bacon Pea Salad does not rely on lettuce. Instead, it highlights simple ingredients that blend beautifully together. The sweetness of peas pairs perfectly with the salty bacon, while cheese and vegetables add extra layers of flavor and texture.

Ingredients You Will Need

To prepare a classic Bacon Pea Salad, gather the following ingredients:

4 cups frozen green peas, thawed
8 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
1 cup cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes or shredded
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup celery, finely chopped
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon until it becomes golden brown and crispy. Crispy bacon works best for this salad because it adds a satisfying crunch and a deep smoky flavor.

Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel to remove excess grease. Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then chop it into small pieces. Set aside a small amount if you want to sprinkle it on top before serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Peas

If you are using frozen peas, allow them to thaw completely. You can place them in the refrigerator for several hours or run them under cool water until softened.

Drain any excess water from the peas. The peas should be tender but still firm enough to maintain their shape and provide a fresh texture.

If using fresh peas, briefly blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes, then cool them before adding them to the salad.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables and Cheese

Prepare the remaining ingredients by chopping the red onion and celery into small pieces. These vegetables add a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy dressing.

Cut the cheddar cheese into small cubes or shred it, depending on your preference. Cheese adds a rich, savory element that makes the salad more satisfying.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.

Mix everything together until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy. The vinegar adds a slight tanginess, while the sugar balances the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the peas.

Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed.