Cheddar Pea Salad
A vibrant, savory salad combining peas, cheddar, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick side dishes that appeal to all tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Chill the salad for 1 hour or longer before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or a dollop of Greek yogurt. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with another cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to enhance the dish further, try adding herbs like dill or parsley. This salad can also be made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together, making it a great option for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheddar Pea Salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics, as it pairs beautifully with main dishes like grilled chicken or burgers. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or as a topping for baked potatoes. It also complements other salads such as Spring Pea Salad, making for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the salad contains mayonnaise, it's best consumed cold. If the salad becomes too dry after a day, you can add a splash more mayonnaise to refresh it before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the peas and cheese may be affected.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Pea Salad contains roughly 589 calories, with 16g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 714mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peas instead of canned peas?
Yes, you can use frozen peas for a fresher taste. Just blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes and then cool them in ice water before adding to the salad. This will help retain their vibrant color and crunchiness, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
How can I make this salad healthier?
To lighten the salad, consider reducing the amount of mayonnaise or using a low-fat version. You can also increase the amount of vegetables, such as adding diced bell peppers or cucumbers, which will add crunch and nutrients without significantly changing the flavor.
Is this salad suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely! This Cheddar Pea Salad is a crowd-pleaser and holds up well for potlucks. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated until serving time. If you're concerned about it sitting out, consider bringing a cooler to maintain its freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).