Looking for a refreshing, colorful dish to liven up your summer meals or potlucks? A classic pea salad might just be the perfect addition to your table. This delightful recipe blends crisp, vibrant peas with an array of complementary ingredients that promise to tantalize your taste buds. Here's how to make a simple, yet scrumptious pea salad that everyone will love!
Ingredients for Pea Salad
- 1 pound fresh or frozen peas
- 1⁄2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1⁄4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1⁄2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1⁄3 cup mayonnaise
- 1⁄4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳 Note: While bacon adds a delightful flavor, you can omit it for a vegetarian version of this pea salad.
How to Prepare the Pea Salad
Follow these steps to create your easy pea salad:
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Prepare the Peas
- If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling salted water for 2 minutes, then shock in ice water to retain their vibrant color. Drain well.
- Frozen peas can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight or rinsed under warm water and drained thoroughly.
- Mix the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well integrated.
- Assemble the Salad
- In a large serving bowl, add the peas.
- Add the chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the top and gently mix until everything is well coated. Be careful not to mush the peas.
Notes on Serving
🍴 Note: Serve your pea salad chilled for the best flavor and texture. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Variations to Try
Here are some fun variations to keep your pea salad fresh and exciting:
- Add Crunch: Include diced celery or water chestnuts for added texture.
- Herbs: Chopped dill or mint can give an aromatic lift to the salad.
- Fruit: Try adding some fresh blueberries or diced apples for a sweet contrast.
- Veggies: Sliced radishes or shredded carrots can enhance the color palette and nutrition.
Pea salad is a dish that combines simplicity with the pleasure of vibrant, fresh ingredients. Whether it's for a family meal, a potluck, or a festive barbecue, this recipe's versatility makes it a crowd pleaser. The creamy yet light dressing, combined with the crunch of fresh peas, creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. With the added flexibility to customize the salad to your taste or to the occasion, it's easy to see why this pea salad is a staple at summer gatherings. Dive into this recipe and let it refresh your table with its crisp, cool charm.
Can I use canned peas instead of fresh or frozen?
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Yes, you can use canned peas for convenience. However, remember to drain and rinse them well to remove the canning liquid which can alter the salad’s flavor and texture.
How long can I store this pea salad?
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Pea salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the texture of the peas might soften and the salad could lose its freshness.
Can I make this salad in advance?
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Yes, in fact, making it in advance allows the flavors to develop. Just make sure to add the dressing close to serving time to keep the peas crisp.
