Crispy Peas Salad
A vibrant, crunchy salad combining tender peas, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing, perfect for a quick, fresh side dish or picnic favorite. Topped with bacon for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the thawed baby peas, diced celery, chopped cauliflower, and green onions in a large bowl.
- Add the sour cream and Ranch Style salad dressing; mix well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, top with crispy crumbled bacon if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the cashews with sunflower seeds or sliced almonds. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream. Use fresh peas if available for a sweeter taste. To enhance flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish and makes a great side dish for BBQs. For a heartier meal, serve alongside California Ham. Garnish with extra green onions for color and flavor. It can also be served on a bed of fresh greens for added presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some of its crispness over time, so enjoy it fresh. If reheating, gently warm in the microwave without overcooking to maintain texture, though it's best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Peas Salad contains roughly 573 calories, with 21g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 829mg per serving (36% 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 fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used for a sweeter taste and better texture. Just make sure to blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the salad to maintain their vibrant color.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt and use a vegan ranch dressing. You can also omit the bacon or replace it with coconut bacon for a similar crunch.
What other ingredients can I add?
Feel free to customize this salad by adding diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even some chopped herbs like parsley or dill. These additions will enhance the flavor and color of the salad.
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).