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Pea Salad with Bacon

Pea Salad with Bacon
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Pea Salad with Bacon is a refreshing yet indulgent side dish that combines creamy peas, crispy smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and tangy dressing for a perfectly balanced mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors. Ideal for summer barbecues, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, this quick and easy recipe comes together in about 20 minutes and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

Pea Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
  • 6 strips bacon
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bacon: Start by cooking your bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Prepare the Peas: If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes until tender-crisp, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Frozen peas can be thawed quickly by rinsing with cold water and draining well.
  3. Dice the Red Onion and Cheese: Finely chop the red onion to ensure its sharpness isn’t overpowering, and cube or shred your cheddar cheese to add that delicious creamy layer throughout the salad.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Adjust vinegar and seasoning to taste for the perfect tangy balance.
  5. Combine All Ingredients: Gently fold together peas, bacon bits, onion, cheese, and dressing in a large bowl until everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
  6. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Serve chilled for best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh peas and quality bacon to elevate flavor.
  • Start with less dressing and add gradually to avoid sogginess.
  • Keep peas tender-crisp and bacon crunchy for best texture.
  • Chill salad at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  • Adjust salt, pepper, and vinegar to taste before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: pea salad, bacon salad, side dish, summer recipes, picnic salad, creamy pea salad, bacon side dish

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