Name: Classic Southern Pea Salad That Will Brighten Your Table
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 16 oz Frozen Sweet Peas (Substitute with canned peas, drained.); 2 Hard-Boiled Eggs (Use eggs that are a few days old for easier peeling.); 4 to 6 slices Bacon (Can substitute with 1 cup chopped cooked ham.); 1/2 cup Green Onions (Substitute with regular onions if desired.); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Substitute with your favorite cheese like pepper jack.); 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 1/2 tsp Salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder (Adds depth of flavor.); 1/2 tsp Celery Seeds (Or use 1/2 cup chopped celery.); Cayenne Pepper (Sprinkle for a hint of spice; adjust to preference.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Substitute with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier version.); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Use light sour cream for a healthier option.)

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Fresh and vibrant flavors collide in this creamy Classic Southern Pea Salad, a dish that whisks me back to sunny picnics and family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a no-cook delight that’s not only quick to prepare but also wonderfully customizable to suit your taste. Imagine the satisfying crunch of sweet peas mingling with crispy bacon and a hint of tang from the dressing—each bite is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a last-minute side at your next potluck, this salad brings comfort food vibes without the fuss. Are you ready to elevate your salad game with this Southern classic?

Why is this salad so irresistible?

Freshness: The combination of crunchy sweet peas and crispy bacon creates a satisfying texture that your taste buds will adore.

No-Cook Convenience: This no-cook recipe means you can whip it up quickly, perfect for busy days when time is short.

Customizable: With options to incorporate your favorite ingredients, from spicy jalapeños to creamy avocado mayo, this salad lets you personalize every bite!

Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to be a hit at gatherings, this classic Southern pea salad brings a touch of nostalgia that everyone appreciates.

Easy Prep: It comes together in just minutes, making it an excellent choice for potlucks and picnics when you want something delicious without the hassle.

Whether bringing a dish to share or enjoying it at home, this salad is sure to bring smiles all around!

Classic Southern Pea Salad Ingredients

• Gather these ingredients for a delightful dish that brightens up any table!

For the Salad

Frozen Sweet Peas (16 oz) – Provides a sweet and refreshing base; substitute with canned peas, drained.
Hard-Boiled Eggs (2) – Add protein and creaminess; use eggs that are a few days old for easier peeling.
Bacon (4 to 6 slices) – Contributes savory flavor and crunch; can substitute with 1 cup chopped cooked ham.
Green Onions (1/2 cup) – Enhance freshness and mild onion flavor; substitute with regular onions if desired.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – Adds creaminess and sharpness; substitute with your favorite cheese like pepper jack for spice.
Black Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Provides mild heat; adjust to taste.
Salt (1/2 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor.
Garlic Powder (1/4 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor.
Celery Seeds (1/2 tsp) or Chopped Celery (1/2 cup) – Introduces a crunch; can adjust based on preference.
Cayenne Pepper (sprinkle) – Offers a hint of spice; add more for significant heat.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise (1/2 cup) – Creates a creamy base; substitute with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier version.
Sour Cream (1/2 cup) – Complements mayo for an extra creamy dressing; may use light sour cream as a healthier option.

This Classic Southern Pea Salad is not only quick to prepare—it’s also a versatile dish that can be easily tailored to your palate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Southern Pea Salad

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 16 oz of thawed frozen sweet peas, 2 chopped hard-boiled eggs, 4 to 6 crumbled slices of crispy bacon, ½ cup sliced green onions, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together until evenly mixed, creating a colorful base for your Classic Southern Pea Salad.

Step 2: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle the mixture with ¼ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp celery seeds or ½ cup chopped celery for added crunch. Optionally, add a light sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. Stir gently to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed without mashing the peas.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise and ½ cup sour cream until smooth and creamy. This dressing will add richness and depth to your Classic Southern Pea Salad. Make sure the mixture is well-blended, creating a luscious coating for the salad’s vibrant ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Dressing and Salad
Pour the creamy dressing over the pea mixture and gently fold it in, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated without breaking the peas. This step is crucial for achieving a balanced flavor that brings out the freshness of the peas and crunch of the bacon in your salad.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the Classic Southern Pea Salad for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste. If you’re preparing it a day ahead, it will become even more delicious as the ingredients have time to marry together.

Step 6: Final Touches
Before serving, give the salad a final stir to redistribute ingredients, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy the burst of flavors and comforting textures as you serve this delightful dish at your next picnic or gathering, completing the experience with nostalgia and joy.

Expert Tips for Classic Southern Pea Salad

• Fresh Peas Matter: Use thawed frozen sweet peas instead of canned for a crunchier texture. Avoid over-thawing to keep them vibrant.

• Perfectly Boiled Eggs: Select eggs that are a few days old for easier peeling. This small trick can save you time and frustration!

• Crisp Bacon: Fry bacon until golden and crispy for an added crunch that complements the creamy dressing beautifully. Freshly cooked always tastes best!

• Season Smart: Taste and adjust seasonings towards the end to avoid oversalting. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!

• Chill Time: Allow your Classic Southern Pea Salad to chill for at least an hour. This step melds flavors and enhances the overall taste.

• Customize with Love: Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite ingredients—like roasted red peppers or sunflower seeds—for a personal touch!

What to Serve with Classic Southern Pea Salad

Looking to create a wonderful spread around this creamy classic?

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky grilled chicken complements the creamy texture of the salad, creating a satisfying balance on your plate.
Cornbread: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread provides a comforting contrast to the savory pea salad, making for a delicious Southern meal.
Fried Catfish: Crispy fried catfish adds a delightful crunch and a fishy note that pairs beautifully with the salad’s creaminess.
Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy coleslaw offers a bright contrast to the rich flavors, adding freshness to your meal.
Potato Salad: This classic duo creates a nostalgic picnic experience, with the creamy potato flavor complementing the peas effortlessly.
Sweet Tea: A glass of refreshing sweet tea elevates the meal, washing down the rich flavors while enhancing the Southern charm.
Pecan Pie: End on a sweet note with a slice of pecan pie, bringing together the nuttiness that pairs nicely with the salad.
Grilled Veggies: Charred seasonal veggies add a colorful, smoky touch to your meal, enhancing its flavor profile beautifully.
Tortilla Chips: Serve crispy tortilla chips alongside for a satisfying crunch, perfect for scooping bites of the creamy salad!

Classic Southern Pea Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Classic Southern Pea Salad and elevate its flavors with these easy twists that will bring new excitement to your table.

Vegetarian Delight: Replace bacon with your favorite plant-based protein like chickpeas or tempeh for a satisfying vegetarian option. You won’t miss the meat with this hearty alternative!
Extra Crunch: Toss in a handful of roasted red peppers or diced pickles for added texture and a delightful zing that brightens each bite.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle in sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts to introduce a crunchy element; they’ll enhance the salad while providing delightful flavor contrasts.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or banana peppers to give your salad a flavorful heat that passionately awakens your taste buds. This is perfect for spice lovers!
Creamy Avocado: Substitute the mayonnaise with avocado-based mayo or light mayo for a lighter, yet creamy dressing that brings a fresh, fruity taste.
Cheese Swap: Change up the cheese by using pepper jack instead of cheddar for a spicy twist that adds a whole new layer of flavor to your salad.
Herb Infusion: Blend in fresh dill or parsley to elevate the herbaceous notes, making it even more refreshing and vibrant.
Greek Twist: Swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt, turning your salad into a protein-rich pleasure with a tangy finish that both kids and adults will love.

Now that you have some delightful variations, why not customize your salad today? For more inspiration, check out our delicious ideas on wholesome ingredients and creative mix-ins. Your Classic Southern Pea Salad is ready for a fresh take!

How to Store and Freeze Classic Southern Pea Salad

Fridge: Store your Classic Southern Pea Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve when made a day in advance, so it’s a great prep option!

Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to the creaminess, you can store it for up to 1 month in an airtight container. However, keep in mind the texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating: If you’ve stored leftovers, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating in the microwave, which can alter the peas’ texture.

Freshening Up: For the best taste, consider adding a dash of fresh mayo or a sprinkle of green onions just before serving after storage to revitalize flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Southern Pea Salad is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salad a full 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor. Simply combine the thawed sweet peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon, green onions, and cheese in a mixing bowl, then mix in the seasonings. For the dressing, whisk together mayonnaise and sour cream in a separate bowl, refrigerate both components, and combine them just before serving to avoid sogginess. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but ensures that your salad is just as delicious when it’s time to enjoy. Store everything in airtight containers to maintain freshness for up to 3 days in the fridge!

Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best peas?
Absolutely! When selecting peas, I recommend using thawed frozen sweet peas for a crisp texture. If using canned peas, ensure they are drained well to prevent excess moisture. Look for peas that are bright green without dark spots for freshness.

How do I store leftover Classic Southern Pea Salad?
Very simply! Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I often find that the flavors meld beautifully when it’s made a day ahead. However, make sure to keep it chilled until serving!

Can I freeze Classic Southern Pea Salad?
It’s not ideal, but you can freeze it! Place your salad in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that the creamy texture might change upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

What if my peas are soft after cooking?
If your peas become too soft, it’s all about handling them gently. When making your salad, avoid over-mixing and fold in the ingredients lightly. Always thaw peas in the fridge rather than the microwave to maintain that satisfying crunch.

Are there any allergy considerations?
Absolutely, you’ll want to be aware of potential allergies. The recipe contains ingredients like eggs, mayonnaise, and bacon, which could be problematic for those with specific dietary restrictions. For example, you can use vegan mayo and omit bacon for a vegetarian version. Always check labels for allergens!

How do I add freshness when using stored leftovers?
Great question! To freshen up your Classic Southern Pea Salad after storage, simply stir in a bit of fresh mayonnaise or sprinkle some chopped green onions before serving. This revives the flavors beautifully for an enjoyable meal!