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The Ultimate Creamy Classic Pea Salad with Bacon, Cheddar, and Red Onion

Close-up of a vibrant, creamy pea salad mixed with ham, eggs, and red onion in a clear glass bowl.
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Make this classic Southern pea salad, a creamy and crunchy side dish perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or any gathering. It comes together quickly with simple ingredients and is best served cold.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (16 ounce) package frozen sweet peas, thawed
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Thaw the frozen peas completely. Drain any excess water from the peas.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, and chopped hard-boiled eggs if you are using them.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture. Gently fold all ingredients together until the peas and other additions are evenly coated.
  5. Cover the bowl and chill the pea salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend.
  6. Serve cold as a side dish for your next meal or gathering.

Notes

  • This salad holds up well and is excellent for make-ahead preparation. Chill for up to 24 hours.
  • If you are planning meals for the week, this is a great side to prepare alongside your main course.
  • For a tangier dressing, increase the white vinegar by one teaspoon.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cutcooktaste.com/classic-pea-salad-recipe/