Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe

Green pea salad is creamy, fresh and full of flavor. This classic side dish is perfect for family dinners and holiday meals. The Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe is simple and quick to prepare.

It uses sweet peas, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese and creamy dressing. Many people love this cold salad because it tastes rich and refreshing together. If you want an easy side dish, this Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe is a great choice.

Today, you will learn How to make Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe at home with easy steps.

The Secret Behind This Delicious

• The secret behind this tasty salad is balance. Sweet peas mix perfectly with salty bacon and creamy dressing. Red onions add a little crunch and sharp flavor. Cheddar cheese gives the salad a rich and creamy taste.
• Another secret is using frozen peas instead of canned peas. Frozen peas stay firm and bright green. They also taste sweeter and fresher. The dressing coats every bite without making the salad heavy.
• This salad becomes even better after chilling. The flavors mix together beautifully in the refrigerator.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe
• Servings: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Spoon or spatula
• Frying pan
• Paper towels

Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe

Here are the fresh and simple Ingredients for Paula Deen Green Pea Salad:

• 4 cups frozen green peas, thawed
• 8 slices bacon
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon

Place bacon slices in a frying pan. Cook until crispy and golden brown. Remove and place on paper towels.

2. Chop the Bacon

Let the bacon cool completely. Chop into small crunchy pieces using a sharp knife on a cutting board.

3. Prepare the Peas

Place thawed green peas inside a large bowl. Make sure there is no extra water remaining on peas.

4. Add the Onion

Add chopped red onion into the bowl. Mix lightly with peas for even flavor in every bite.

5. Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese into the pea mixture. Stir gently to spread the cheese evenly throughout the salad.

6. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, vinegar, salt and black pepper until smooth and creamy.

7. Combine Everything

Pour the creamy dressing over the pea mixture. Stir carefully until all ingredients are fully coated with dressing.

8. Add the Bacon

Mix most bacon pieces into the salad. Save a few pieces for topping before serving for extra crunch.

9. Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving for best flavor.

10. Serve and Enjoy

Top the salad with extra bacon pieces. Serve cold and enjoy this creamy and delicious side dish.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use sharp cheddar cheese for stronger flavor.
• Dry the peas well before mixing the salad.
• Add diced boiled eggs for extra protein.
• Try turkey bacon for a lighter version.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Add sunflower seeds for crunchy texture.
• Chill the salad overnight for deeper flavor.
• Sweet onions work well if red onions taste too strong.
• Add chopped celery for extra freshness.
• Use smoked bacon for richer taste.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	10 g
Fat	24 g
Carbohydrates	16 g
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	7 g
Sodium	540 mg

Serving Suggestions

• This salad tastes wonderful with grilled chicken or barbecue dishes. It also pairs nicely with burgers, sandwiches and roasted meats.
• Serve it during summer picnics, potlucks or holiday dinners. Many families enjoy this salad during Easter and Christmas meals.
• You can also serve this salad beside fried chicken, baked ham or steak. The creamy flavor balances smoky and savory foods perfectly.
• For a fresh meal, enjoy it with sliced tomatoes and warm bread.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container inside the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days.
• Do not leave the salad at room temperature for long periods. The creamy dressing can spoil quickly.
• This salad is best served cold. Reheating is not recommended because the dressing may separate and become watery.
• Before serving leftovers, stir the salad gently to refresh the texture and flavor.

FAQs about Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe

Can I use canned peas instead of frozen peas?

Yes, but frozen peas taste fresher and stay firmer. Canned peas can become soft and mushy inside the salad.

How to make Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe healthier?

Use light mayonnaise and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Turkey bacon also helps reduce fat and calories significantly.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad tastes even better after chilling several hours. You can prepare it one day before serving easily.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar cheese gives the best flavor. Mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese also work nicely in this salad.

Can I freeze green pea salad?

Freezing is not recommended because the creamy dressing changes texture after thawing. The salad may become watery and grainy.

Conclusion

This creamy and classic side dish is always a crowd favorite. The Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe is simple, flavorful and easy to prepare. Sweet peas, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese and creamy dressing create the perfect combination.

Now you know How to make Paula Deen Green Pea Salad Recipe with easy ingredients and simple steps. This salad works perfectly for holidays, picnics and family dinners.

Try this delicious recipe today and enjoy every creamy, crunchy and refreshing bite with your favorite meals.