Green Pea-Bacon Salad
A creamy, savory green pea and bacon salad with tangy sour cream and fresh green onions, perfect as a side dish or picnic addition for any casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and mix well.
- Chill in refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced bell peppers or a sprinkle of garlic powder. If you're looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream. You can also try using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a healthier option. This salad is versatile, making it a great addition to summer picnics or barbecues alongside dishes like Picnic Beans.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. It pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes such as Hamburger Pie Casserole or Nutty Ham And Cheese. For a complete meal, serve it alongside some crusty bread or a light green salad to balance the richness of the bacon and sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Green Pea-Bacon Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, but the texture of the peas may soften. If you want to enjoy it warm, you can gently heat it in the microwave for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as it is best served chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Pea-Bacon Salad contains roughly 208 calories, with 10g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 485mg per serving (21% 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 for this salad?
Yes, you can use fresh peas if you prefer, but you will need to blanch them first. Boil fresh peas for 1-2 minutes and then cool them in ice water before mixing them into the salad. This will help maintain their bright color and crisp texture.
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative such as cashew cream or a soy-based sour cream. You can also skip the bacon or use a plant-based bacon substitute to achieve a similar smoky flavor while keeping it entirely plant-based.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa or diced avocado. These ingredients not only add texture but also increase the nutritional value of the dish. Additionally, incorporating some chopped hard-boiled eggs can provide extra protein, making it a more satisfying meal option.
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).