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.
Ingredients
- 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
Cook the Bacon
- Place bacon slices in a frying pan. Cook until crispy and golden brown. Remove and place on paper towels.
Chop the Bacon
- Let the bacon cool completely. Chop into small crunchy pieces using a sharp knife on a cutting board.
Prepare the Peas
- Place thawed green peas inside a large bowl. Make sure there is no extra water remaining on peas.
Add the Onion
- Add chopped red onion into the bowl. Mix lightly with peas for even flavor in every bite.
Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese into the pea mixture. Stir gently to spread the cheese evenly throughout the salad.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, vinegar, salt and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything
- Pour the creamy dressing over the pea mixture. Stir carefully until all ingredients are fully coated with dressing.
Add the Bacon
- Mix most bacon pieces into the salad. Save a few pieces for topping before serving for extra crunch.
Chill the Salad
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving for best flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
- Top the salad with extra bacon pieces. Serve cold and enjoy this creamy and delicious side dish.
Notes
- 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.