Classic Pea Salad — The Perfect Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish!

👩‍🍳 How to Make It:

1. Cook the bacon:

Fry the bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels and crumble it into small pieces.

2. Prepare the dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

3. Mix the salad:

In a large bowl, combine thawed peas, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and diced red onion.

4. Add the dressing:

Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld beautifully.

🍽️ Why This Salad Works:

• Bright and creamy: The tangy dressing complements the sweetness of peas perfectly.

• Crunchy bits: Crispy bacon and fresh onion add texture that keeps every bite interesting.

• Cheesy goodness: Sharp cheddar adds a rich flavor that balances the salad.

• Make ahead: This salad gets better the longer it chills — great for prepping ahead of time!

💡 Pro Tips:

• Use fresh peas in season for an even sweeter taste.

• Swap bacon for smoked turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian version.

• Add a handful of toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.

• Feel free to adjust sugar and vinegar to your taste preference.

🥗 Serving Ideas:

This pea salad is an excellent side for grilled chicken, burgers, or as part of a picnic spread. It’s also great in lunchboxes or as a light summer meal.

Enjoy this classic pea salad that’s easy, tasty, and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Perfect for sharing and always a hit!