Name: Classic Pea Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Frozen peas, thawed (Rinse under cool water until no longer icy.); 8 slices Bacon, crumbled (Fry until crispy and drain on paper towels.); 1 Red onion, diced; 1 cup Cheddar cheese, cubed; 1/2 cup Sour cream; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Sugar; 1 tablespoon Vinegar; 1 teaspoon Salt

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Are you searching for the perfect cool-and-creamy side dish that pops with color and flavor? Classic Pea Salad is your answer! This irresistible salad brings together sweet green peas, crunchy bacon, creamy dressing, and tangy bits of cheddar for a taste sensation in every bite. It’s the kind of dish you can quickly whip up for a weekend barbecue, picnic, or busy weeknight meal, making it a staple for both everyday dinners and special family gatherings.

Fun fact: pea salad has graced potluck tables for generations—it’s retro, but never out of style! If you love our quick Macaroni Salad, you’ll be obsessed with this vibrant, protein-packed option. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s celebrate one of the most effortless and crowd-pleasing salads ever created. You’re going to love every creamy, crunchy forkful!

What is Classic Pea Salad?

Have you ever wondered why it’s called Classic Pea Salad? No mysteries here—it’s a salad, and yes, peas are the star of the show! Sometimes you just have to call it like it is. This quirky combo proves that the way to a man’s (or anyone’s!) heart is through their stomach—especially when bacon and cheese are involved.

Maybe your grandma brought it to church suppers, or maybe you’ve only heard about it in cookbooks, but trust us: once you taste this legendary salad, you’ll crave it every summer. So why not roll up your sleeves and try this tried-and-true classic for your next meal?

Why You’ll Love This

Classic Pea Salad checks every box for home cooks and food lovers. First, its signature highlight is the flavor mash-up: crisp peas, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a cool, tangy dressing. Can you already taste it?

Making it at home is not only simple but budget-friendly—you can build a hefty bowlful for a fraction of the deli price, and you know exactly what’s going in. The best part is the bold toppings: savory bacon crumbles, juicy cubes of cheddar, and that little bite of red onion.

Looking for another creamy classic? Check out our Potato Salad, but don’t miss this pea salad—it’s just too good to pass up. Ready for a bowl of nostalgia that satisfies every craving? Let’s get cooking!

How to Make Classic Pea Salad

Quick Overview

Classic Pea Salad is the definition of easy, delicious, and satisfying. This recipe shines for its simplicity: pantry-friendly ingredients, speedy prep, and amazing flavor and texture combos. The cool, creamy sauce coats sweet peas, crunchy bacon, and sharp cheddar, creating a salad that’s ready in just under 20 minutes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients

4 cups peas, thawed (frozen works best)
8 slices bacon, crumbled
1 red onion, diced
1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Thaw the Peas
Pour frozen peas into a colander and rinse under cool water until no longer icy. Drain well and pat dry.
Cook the Bacon
Fry bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
Combine the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, add thawed peas, crumbled bacon, diced red onion, and cubed cheddar cheese.
Make the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and salt until smooth.
Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently stir until fully coated.
Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop and salad to chill.
Garnish & Serve
Just before serving, give it a final toss and sprinkle with extra bacon or cheddar if desired.

What to Serve Classic Pea Salad With

This vibrant salad is the ultimate companion for summer favorites like:

Grilled burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue ribs
Smoked chicken or fried fish
Cornbread or buttery dinner rolls
A crisp garden salad or creamy coleslaw
Sweet tea or ice-cold lemonade to round it all out

Perfect for picnics, potlucks, and BBQs, Classic Pea Salad fits any menu where comfort food is on the table.

Top Tips for Perfecting Classic Pea Salad

Use frozen peas, not canned, for the best color and crisp-tender texture.
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayo.
Make it vegetarian by swapping bacon for smoked almonds or veggie bacon bits.
Let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to fully absorb the dressing.
Taste before serving—adjust salt, sugar, or vinegar as needed for balance.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving if the dressing separates slightly during storage.
Do not freeze—the peas and dressing can lose texture and flavor.
Prep ahead tip: You can mix the dressing and prepare other ingredients in advance, then combine just before serving for maximum freshness.

FAQs

Can I make Classic Pea Salad ahead of time?
Yes! It’s even better after chilling for a few hours. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

Can I use canned peas?
You can, but they tend to be mushier. Frozen peas (thawed) are much better for texture.

What can I substitute for bacon?
Try smoked turkey bacon, veggie bacon bits, or roasted almonds for a satisfying crunch.

Can I add more mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try hard-boiled eggs, chopped celery, diced bell peppers, or even a handful of fresh herbs.

Is Classic Pea Salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your bacon and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Classic Pea Salad is the kind of dish that wins over crowds with its charm, flavor, and ease of preparation. Creamy, savory, sweet, and just a little nostalgic, it’s a salad that makes every meal feel more complete. From sunny cookouts to family dinners, this quick side dish never fails to shine.

Try it once, and it just might become your go-to recipe for potlucks, parties, or anytime you need a fast, flavorful side. Looking for more retro favorites and feel-good recipes? Browse the blog and bring a little classic comfort to your table today!