Old Fashioned Pea Salad Recipe

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Creamy, crunchy, and full of vintage charm, Old Fashioned Pea Salad is the kind of dish that reminds you of summer picnics and potluck dinners at grandma’s house. This colorful salad combines sweet green peas, chunks of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and red onion in a rich, tangy dressing that perfectly balances flavor and texture.

It’s a humble side dish that holds its own next to barbecue ribs, fried chicken, or a classic sandwich spread. The peas stay crisp-tender, the cheese adds a creamy bite, and the bacon gives that salty, smoky crunch you didn’t know you needed in a cold salad. Simple yet irresistible.

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Ingredients for this recipe

• 4 cups frozen green peas, thawed and drained
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ¾ cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by thawing the frozen peas. Let them sit in a colander at room temperature, or run them under cold water for quicker thawing. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. The result should be a creamy, tangy base that will coat all the ingredients.

Step 3: Combine the Salad

Add the thawed peas, diced red onion, cubed cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon into the bowl with the dressing. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently fold everything together. Make sure the dressing evenly coats all components without mashing the peas.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and gives the peas a crisp, refreshing texture. Give it a quick stir before plating. Garnish with extra bacon if you’d like!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can prepare Old Fashioned Pea Salad up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, letting it chill overnight enhances the flavor.

Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?

It’s possible, but not ideal. Canned peas tend to be mushier and can result in a less appealing texture.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt or additional mayonnaise if you prefer. Both will keep the creamy consistency.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian bacon alternative or roasted sunflower seeds for crunch.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the bacon and any condiments for hidden gluten.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, fried chicken, or any classic picnic spread. It’s also a fantastic addition to a brunch buffet.

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