Classic Pea Salad 🫛: A Timeless, Creamy, and Crunchy Side Dish

Classic Pea Salad 🫛 is a beloved retro-style dish that has stood the test of time for good reason. Known for its vibrant green peas, creamy dressing, and crunchy textures, it’s the perfect side for potlucks, BBQs, picnics, or casual family dinners. Simple to make and packed with flavor, this salad is a celebration of contrasts — sweet and savory, creamy and crisp, nostalgic yet fresh.

In this article, you’ll learn all about Classic Pea Salad, its components, and a step-by-step guide to making it in your kitchen.

🫛 What is Classic Pea Salad?

Classic Pea Salad is a cold salad made with green peas as the base, combined with ingredients like red onion, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a tangy mayo-based dressing. It’s known for its bright appearance, creamy mouthfeel, and the surprising crunch that makes every bite satisfying.

Though it originated in the American Midwest, its appeal is universal due to its simplicity and balance of flavors.

🥣 Why You’ll Love Classic Pea Salad

• ✅ No cooking required (just a bit of bacon frying)
• ✅ Quick to assemble
• ✅ Make-ahead friendly — even better after chilling
• ✅ Crunchy, creamy, sweet, and salty in one bowl
• ✅ Kid-friendly and customizable

🧂 Ingredients for Classic Pea Salad (Serves 4–6)

• 4 cups frozen green peas (don’t use canned)
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream (for tang and creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

🌿 Optional Add-ins: Chopped boiled eggs, diced celery, fresh dill, shredded carrots, or even sunflower seeds.

🧑‍🍳 How to Make Classic Pea Salad: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Thaw the Peas

Remove 4 cups of frozen green peas from the freezer and place them in a colander. Run them under cold water for 2–3 minutes to thaw quickly, then let them drain completely.

💡 Tip: Don’t cook the peas. You want them cold, firm, and slightly sweet.

Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.

🥓 Shortcut: Use pre-cooked bacon bits if you’re short on time, but freshly cooked gives the best flavor.

Step 3: Prep the Vegetables and Cheese

Dice 1/2 cup red onion finely (so it doesn’t overpower the salad), and cube or shred 3/4 cup cheddar cheese.

🧅 Mild option: Soak onions in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness.

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