There’s something magical about Southern Pea Salad—it’s like a warm hug just waiting for a place on your table. As I whip up this dish, I’m transported to sunny picnics and lively family gatherings. This versatile salad features vibrant sweet peas paired with savory bites of bacon and rich cheddar, creating a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to impress. What I love most is that it takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it an effortless addition to any holiday meal or barbecue feast. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or simply craving a comforting side, this Southern Pea Salad is your ticket to culinary success. Ready to discover how a few simple ingredients can create a crowd-pleasing dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is Southern Pea Salad a Must-Try?

Versatile and Adaptable: This salad is a canvas for your creativity, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients like tomatoes or green peppers.

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious side ready to impress your guests or family.

Rich Flavors: The combination of creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and sweet peas creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a festive holiday table, this dish fits right in, making it an essential recipe for any gathering.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Preparing this salad a day in advance enhances the flavors, making it a time-saving hero in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy it with dishes like Chicken Skewer Salad or Southern Squash Casserole!

Southern Pea Salad Ingredients

• • Line 1: Discover the key components!

For the Salad Base

  • Frozen Sweet Peas – the star ingredient that provides natural sweetness; feel free to substitute with thawed uncooked peas or drained canned peas for convenience.
  • Hard-Boiled Eggs – adds a protein boost and creamy texture; you can leave these out for a lighter dish.
  • Bacon or Ham – contributes a savory, smoky flavor; ham is a great alternative if you prefer a less crispy texture.
  • Green Onion – offers a mild onion taste; regular onion can be used if you like a stronger flavor.

For the Creamy Dressing

  • Mayonnaise – binds everything together with a creamy base; consider Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative.
  • Sour Cream – adds a delightful tang; yogurt can also replace this for a fresh twist.

For Seasoning & Texture

  • Cheddar Cheese – brings richness; other cheeses like mozzarella can also work wonders.
  • Black Pepper – adds warmth and enhances flavors; adjust to your preference.
  • Salt – essential for flavor enhancement; taste as you go.
  • Garlic Powder – contributes depth; substitute with fresh garlic if you’d like a bolder kick.

For Crunch and Flavor

  • Celery Seeds or Chopped Celery – adds a lovely crunch; fresh celery is recommended for the best texture.
  • Dash of Cayenne – gives a hint of heat; omit this for a milder flavor.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating the ultimate Southern Pea Salad that’s destined to be a hit at any gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for SOUTHERN PEA SALAD

Step 1: Prepare the Peas
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of thawed frozen sweet peas or drained canned peas. Ensure they are slightly cooled to retain their sweetness. The peas should look bright green and glossy, creating a lovely base for your Southern Pea Salad.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Meat
Chop 2 hard-boiled eggs and crumble around 4 strips of crispy bacon or diced ham into the bowl with peas. The eggs add creaminess, while the bacon or ham introduces a savory, smoky flavor. Gently mix these ingredients to distribute them evenly without breaking the peas.

Step 3: Mix in Vegetables
Chop 2 green onions and add them to the mixture for a refreshing crunch and mild onion flavor. This will enhance the texture of your Southern Pea Salad. Stir carefully to avoid smashing the peas, ensuring everything is well combined and colorful.

Step 4: Season the Salad
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder for flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to kick it up a notch. Stir the mixture again until all spices are evenly distributed, making the flavors pop.

Step 5: Create the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise and ½ cup of sour cream, blending them until smooth. This creamy dressing will bind all your ingredients together. Pour the dressing into the salad bowl and mix gently, ensuring every pea is coated without mashing them.

Step 6: Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the Southern Pea Salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and texture. Prepare for a refreshing experience when you serve it!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the ingredients. Optionally, sprinkle additional chopped green onions on top for garnish. This beautiful Southern Pea Salad is now ready to be enjoyed alongside your favorite dishes, making every meal a little more special!

Make Ahead Options

These Southern Pea Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can chop your vegetables, hard-boil your eggs, and even cook your bacon or ham up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the prepared ingredients separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, toss everything together with the dressing and chill for at least 2 hours to enhance the flavors. This allows you to enjoy a delicious, creamy Southern Pea Salad that tastes just as wonderful as when freshly made, while giving you valuable time back for other tasks!

What to Serve with Southern Pea Salad

There’s nothing quite like pairing a vibrant salad with other delicious dishes that elevate your meal experience.

  • Grilled Chicken: The smoky, tender flavors of grilled chicken perfectly balance the creamy richness of the salad, creating a comforting dinner plate.

  • Savory Cornbread: The fluffy texture and subtly sweet flavor of cornbread complement Southern Pea Salad beautifully, making every bite feel like home.

  • BBQ Ribs: These tender, saucy ribs bring a hearty element that contrasts nicely with the light texture of the salad, creating the ideal summer feast.

  • Creamy Coleslaw: With its crisp crunch and tangy marinade, coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast that works harmoniously alongside the creamy salad.

  • Marinated Grilled Vegetables: The charred, smoky flavors and vibrant colors from grilled vegetables add a healthful and colorful touch to your meal, enhancing the overall dish experience.

  • Sweet Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like sweet tea or lemonade bring a delightful sweetness to the table, balancing the savory elements of the food beautifully.

Each of these options contributes its unique flavor or texture, turning your meal into an unforgettable culinary celebration!

How to Store and Freeze Southern Pea Salad

Fridge: Store your Southern Pea Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep the flavors fresh while preventing any unwanted odors from mingling.

Make-Ahead: Feel free to prepare the salad a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully after a night in the fridge, enhancing the overall taste and texture for your gathering.

Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to 1 month. To do this, portion it into freezer-safe containers, but note that the texture may change once thawed.

Reheating: If you choose to freeze and then reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Serve chilled for the best flavor experience!

Expert Tips for Southern Pea Salad

  • Prepare in Advance: Giving the salad time to chill ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. Aim to make it a day ahead if possible.

  • Gentle Mixing: Use a light hand when combining the ingredients to preserve the shape of the peas, preventing them from becoming mushy.

  • Taste as You Go: Adjusting salt and garlic powder can make all the difference. Start with less, then add more to suit your preference for the Southern Pea Salad.

  • Explore Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients like diced tomatoes or fresh herbs for a personal twist.

  • Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to three days.

Variations & Substitutions for SOUTHERN PEA SALAD

Feel free to make this Southern Pea Salad your own by experimenting with these delightful variations!

  • Tomato Addition: Incorporate diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness and vibrant color. This little twist brings another layer of flavor that complements the peas beautifully.

  • Herb-Infused: Add chopped dill or parsley for an herby note that elevates the overall taste. Herbs are a great way to inject a pop of freshness into your dish!

  • Protein Swap: Substitute cooked chicken or turkey in place of bacon or ham for a heartier salad option. This variation makes it perfect for a filling lunch or a light dinner.

  • Crunchy Texture: Consider adding water chestnuts for an extra crunch or sweet pickles for a delightful tang. Both ingredients offer textural contrast to the creamy base while enhancing flavor.

  • Spice It Up: Increase the amount of cayenne for a bit more heat, or toss in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. A touch of spice can really amp up the flavor profile!

  • Cheese Alternatives: Use crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a creamy, slightly tangy flavor. Different cheeses can transform this dish for unique taste experiences.

  • Creamy Base Variation: Swap out mayonnaise for avocado for a lighter, creamy dressing that brings healthy fats into play. This not only modifies the flavor but also caters to those avoiding dairy.

With these ideas at your fingertips, your Southern Pea Salad can easily adapt to various tastes and dietary needs. Serve it next to a refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad or a hearty Southern Squash Casserole for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please!

Southern Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select sweet peas for this salad?
Absolutely! The best sweet peas for Southern Pea Salad are bright green and glossy, ensuring they’re fresh. If using frozen peas, make sure they are uncooked and thawed properly. Canned peas should be drained and rinsed to avoid excess salt, giving you that fresh flavor.

How should I store leftover Southern Pea Salad?
Very simply! Store any leftover Southern Pea Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors intact and prevent any other odors from creeping in. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again!

Can I freeze Southern Pea Salad, and if so, how?
Certainly! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Southern Pea Salad for up to 1 month. To do this, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. Remember, the texture might change once thawed, so it’s ideal to serve it chilled.

What should I do if the peas become mushy during mixing?
Oh no! If your peas turn mushy, next time consider using a gentle hand while mixing. Alternatively, try adding them last to your mixture to minimize breakage. If it’s already mushy, you can incorporate some diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! Southern Pea Salad can be adapted for various dietary needs. For a lighter option, replace mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt. If you’re mindful of allergens, ensure the bacon or ham is gluten-free if necessary and consider omitting them for a vegetarian salad. Always taste as you go to find the best balance for your dietary preferences.

SOUTHERN PEA SALAD

Irresistibly Creamy Southern Pea Salad for Any Gathering

This Southern Pea Salad features sweet peas, bacon, and cheddar in a creamy dressing, making it an effortless addition to any gathering.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 3 cups thawed frozen sweet peas or drained canned peas
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs
  • 4 strips crispy bacon or diced ham
  • 2 green onions
For the Creamy Dressing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup sour cream or yogurt
For Seasoning & Texture
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon salt to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder or fresh garlic
For Crunch and Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon celery seeds or chopped celery
  • 1 dash of cayenne omit for milder flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of thawed frozen sweet peas or drained canned peas.
  2. Chop 2 hard-boiled eggs and crumble around 4 strips of crispy bacon or diced ham into the bowl with peas.
  3. Chop 2 green onions and add them to the mixture.
  4. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
  5. In a separate small bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise and ½ cup of sour cream, blending them until smooth.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the Southern Pea Salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  7. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the ingredients.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 8gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, prepare the salad a day in advance and keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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