Old South Salad
A creamy, savory salad featuring peas, celery, green onions, and bacon, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings with a fresh, satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook peas slightly and drain.
- Dice celery and green onions.
- Combine peas, celery, green onions, dairy cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, seasoned salt, and crumbled bacon.
- Refrigerate overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider replacing the dairy cream with sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can also use fresh peas if you prefer a crunchier bite. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon or replace it with smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile. Adjust the seasoned salt to taste, especially if you are using bacon, which is already salty.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Old South Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an excellent accompaniment to dishes like Marinated Pork Kabobs or Easy Barbecue Pork Chops. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or as part of a buffet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day. Avoid freezing the salad, as the cream and peas may not thaw well. When ready to serve, give it a quick stir to re-integrate the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old South Salad contains roughly 117 calories, with 5g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2001mg per serving (87% 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 in place of frozen. They provide a crisp texture and vibrant color. Just make sure to blanch them briefly to maintain their bright green hue and tenderness before mixing them into the salad.
How long can I make this salad ahead of time?
This salad is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it a day in advance and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. The flavors will deepen and enhance, making it even tastier by serving time.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Absolutely! If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise. Both alternatives will maintain the creamy texture while offering different flavor profiles that can complement the other ingredients.
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).