Classic Southern Pea Salad

This Classic Southern Pea Salad is a refreshing and creamy dish that combines sweet peas, savory bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and sharp cheddar cheese in a tangy dressing. It’s a quintessential Southern side dish, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners. With its balance of textures and flavors, this salad is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Sweet & Savory: The sweetness of peas pairs perfectly with smoky bacon and sharp cheddar.
• Creamy & Tangy Dressing: A blend of mayonnaise and sour cream creates a rich yet balanced dressing.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Chilling enhances the flavors, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

 Ingredients (Serves 6–8):

For the Salad:

• 2 cups frozen sweet peas , thawed (do not cook ) 🌱
• 4 large hard-boiled eggs , chopped 🥚
• 6 slices bacon , cooked crispy and crumbled 🥓
• 1/2 cup green onions , thinly sliced 🧅
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese 🧀

For the Seasoning:

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (essential for authentic Southern flavor )
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle kick )

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise 🥄
• 1/4 cup sour cream

 Instructions:

Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients 🥗

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas , chopped eggs , crumbled bacon , green onions , and shredded cheddar cheese .
   • Tip: If the peas seem too wet after thawing, pat them dry gently with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from diluting the dressing.

Step 2: Season Thoughtfully 🌶️

1. Sprinkle the salt , black pepper , garlic powder , celery seeds , and cayenne pepper (if using) evenly over the mixture.
   • Important: Celery seeds are key to achieving that classic Southern flavor—try not to omit them!

Step 3: Create the Creamy Dressing 🥄

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth and fully combined.
   • The sour cream adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the mayonnaise, creating a perfectly balanced dressing.

Step 4: Combine and Chill ❄️

1. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture.
2. Gently fold everything together with a rubber spatula, being careful not to crush the peas.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours , or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and develop.

Step 5: Serve 🍴

1. Give the salad a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (e.g., more salt, pepper, or cayenne).
3. Serve chilled as a side dish alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or fried chicken.

Tips for Success:

• Add-Ins: Stir in diced celery, red bell pepper, or pickles for extra crunch and color.
• Make Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. The flavors improve with time!
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days .
• Substitutions: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 8):

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~9g
• Carbohydrates: ~8g
• Fat: ~18g

Enjoy this Classic Southern Pea Salad as a delightful side dish that’s creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. Its combination of sweet peas, savory bacon, and sharp cheddar makes it a standout at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or a casual family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Let the flavors chill and meld, then dig in and savor the Southern goodness!