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Creamy Southern Pea Salad

A delicious and easy-to-make side dish featuring sweet peas, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a tangy creamy dressing, perfect for any summer potluck.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 7 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups frozen petite peas, thawed
  • 6 large eggs, hard-boiled
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced Can swap for green onion for a milder bite.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Use freshly shredded for better flavor.
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
Dressing
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • a pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil the eggs by placing them in a pot covered with cold water. Bring to a boil, then cover and let sit for 10 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath to cool, then peel and chop.
  2. Cook the bacon starting in a cold skillet over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain and cool, then crumble.
  3. Thaw and drain the peas under cold water for 2-3 minutes. Make sure to drain thoroughly.
  4. Dice the onion and celery into small pieces.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
Combining Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, mix together the peas, chopped eggs, crumbled bacon, diced onion, diced celery, and shredded cheddar.
  2. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the top and gently toss to combine without mashing the peas.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream. If too thick, add a splash of milk.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and fold gently to combine.
Chill and Serve
  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to blend.
  2. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

For freshness, add herbs like dill or parsley just before serving. Can also substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version.