Classic Southern Pea Salad: The Ultimate Southern Pea Salad Recipe
Introduction to Classic Southern Pea Salad
If you’re looking for a delightful, refreshing side dish that embodies Southern comfort, look no further than classic Southern pea salad. This creamy and flavorful dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or simply as a side to your favorite main course. Made with fresh ingredients and a touch of Southern charm, this pea salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
A Personal Story Behind My Classic Southern Pea Salad Journey
Growing up in the South, pea salad was a constant at family gatherings. I remember my grandmother making it every summer, and the sweet, savory aroma of bacon and cheese wafting through the air would draw everyone to the table. The way the flavors meld together after chilling is something special, and it always brought our family together. I’m excited to share this recipe that has so much meaning to me and is sure to please anyone at your table!
What Makes This Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe Special?
This Southern pea salad stands out because of its delightful combination of textures and flavors. The creaminess from the mayonnaise and sour cream balances perfectly with the crispness of the bacon and the freshness of the green onions and dill. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking only a few minutes to prepare. The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time.
The Full Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 cups frozen peas
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 4-6 oz cheddar cheese, cubed small
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 1/2 bunch green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Blanch the Peas: Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Blanch the frozen peas by boiling for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside. Tip: Rinsing the peas helps keep their vibrant green color.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped hard-boiled eggs, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, chopped dill, and blanched peas to the bowl with the dressing. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3 hours before serving. Tip: The longer it sits, the better the flavors develop!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Classic Southern Pea Salad
This pea salad is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, barbecued chicken, or even served on a bed of fresh greens for a light lunch. Consider adding diced bell peppers for an extra crunch or substituting the bacon with beef bacon for a different flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives to suit your taste!
Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Southern Pea Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Chilling Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 17 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 280
- Servings: 6
Classic Southern Pea Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 cups frozen peas
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, cubed small
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 0.5 bunch green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Blanch the frozen peas by boiling for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Add the chopped hard-boiled eggs, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, chopped dill, and blanched peas to the bowl with the dressing. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3 hours before serving.