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Pea Salad with Bacon

Pea Salad with Bacon
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This Pea Salad with Bacon is a quick and easy salad that perfectly balances the sweetness of peas with smoky bacon and a creamy, tangy dressing. Ideal as a side dish, snack, or light meal, it boasts vibrant colors and a variety of textures, making it perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or picnics.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups frozen sweet peas
  • 6 slices bacon
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook and Prepare the Peas: Blanch the frozen peas in boiling water for about 2 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and transfer immediately to an ice bath to stop cooking and preserve their vibrant green color.
  2. Cook the Bacon: Cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove them from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy with a hint of tang.
  4. Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the blanched peas, cooked bacon, finely chopped red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together to coat evenly without mashing the peas.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Give it a final gentle stir before serving. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for added freshness and color.

Notes

  • Use fresh or high-quality frozen peas for the best texture and flavor.
  • Cook bacon until just crispy but not burnt to maximize flavor without bitterness.
  • Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor blending.
  • Adjust vinegar and mayonnaise amounts based on your preferred creaminess and tanginess.
  • Stir gently to avoid smashing the peas and maintain a satisfying bite.

Nutrition

Keywords: pea salad, bacon salad, creamy salad, easy salad recipe, quick salad, potluck recipe, side dish, gluten free salad

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/pea-salad-with-bacon/