Ingredients
– 1/2 cup sour cream This adds the creamy base that makes the dressing rich and smooth, helping to bind all the flavors together for a comforting texture.
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise It enhances the creaminess and provides a slight tang, balancing the sweetness from other ingredients while keeping the salad moist.
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Just a touch to highlight the natural sweetness of the peas, creating that perfect sweet-salty mix that defines Creamy Pea Salad.
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Brings in the tangy note that cuts through the richness, adding brightness and a fresh kick to the overall taste.
– 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste) Seasons the dish just right, enhancing the flavors of the peas, bacon, and cheese without overwhelming them.
– 4 cups thawed frozen peas These are the star, offering a sweet, crunchy element that’s loaded with nutrients and keeps the salad light and colorful.
– 8 slices cooked and crumbled bacon Adds a salty, smoky crunch that contrasts with the creamy dressing, making every bite more exciting.
– 1/2 medium red onion, diced Provides a sharp, fresh bite that balances the richness and adds a bit of color and nutrition to the mix.
– 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, cubed Brings in protein and a melty texture, adding a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the peas and bacon.
Instructions
1-First Step: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients Start by pulling together all your ingredients to make the process smooth. Measure out 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt into a large bowl. This mise en place step ensures everything is ready, letting you adapt for dietary tweaks like using vegan mayo if needed. Thaw 4 cups of frozen peas and dice 1/2 medium red onion while cooking and crumbling 8 slices of bacon for that extra crunch.
2-Second Step: Mix the Dressing Whisk the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt in your large bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is key for blending the tangy and sweet elements that define Creamy Pea Salad. Take a moment to taste and adjust the salt, which helps the flavors pop great for customizing to your preferences or dietary needs.
3-Third Step: Add the Main Ingredients Gently stir in the 4 cups of thawed peas, 8 slices of crumbled bacon, diced red onion, and 1 1/2 cups cubed cheddar cheese. Use a light hand to keep the peas intact and maintain that satisfying crunch, especially if you’re making this for a crowd. This is where you can add variations, like more veggies for a low-calorie version, to suit different tastes.
4-Fourth Step: Chill for Best Results Once mixed, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least one hour to let the flavors meld. Chilling time is crucial for Creamy Pea Salad, as it allows the dressing to soak in without making things soggy reserve some bacon for garnish to keep that texture. This step works well for meal prep, so it’s ideal for busy parents or students planning ahead.
5-Final Step: Serve and Garnish Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and add extra crispy bacon on top for a nice garnish. Serve it cold as a side with grilled meats or on its own for a light meal, and enjoy how the creamy dressing ties everything together. This final touch enhances the appeal of Creamy Pea Salad, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. With about 10 minutes of prep and chilling time, you’ll have a fresh, nutrient-packed salad ready to go.
Last Step:
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🥓 Reserve some cooked bacon for garnish to keep it crispy after chilling.
⏳ Chill the salad for at least an hour to enhance flavor blending.
🥄 Gently fold ingredients to maintain peas and bacon texture without mashing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: 1 hour
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup