Creamy Pea Salad
A creamy and cheesy pea salad packed with flavor, perfect for potlucks and casual gatherings. The mix of tender peas, melted cheeses, crispy bacon, and a savory dressing creates a satisfying dish that appeals to all ages and complements a variety of main courses or as a standalone side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the thawed peas, diced cheddar cheese, diced mozzarella cheese, chopped onion, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated and combined.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Sprinkle the crumbled cooked bacon over the top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh peas instead of frozen for a sweeter taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon bits can be a great substitute for crumbled bacon. You can also replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use a mix of both for creaminess. Adding chopped bell peppers or celery can enhance the crunch and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pea salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. It complements main dishes like Pork Chops And Sweet Potatoes or Barbecue Ham Sandwiches perfectly. You can serve it alongside crusty bread or on a bed of lettuce for added presentation and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly watery over time, so give it a good stir before serving again. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so you can serve it straight from the fridge or let it sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Pea Salad contains roughly 261 calories, with 13g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1277mg per serving (56% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just remember to add the crumbled bacon right before serving to keep it crispy. Make sure to store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon or use crispy chickpeas as a substitute for added crunch. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a sprinkle of liquid smoke to the salad.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, chopped celery, or even shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
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).