Overnight Pea Salad
A refreshing and creamy pea salad with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and fresh vegetables, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the lettuce, cauliflower, onion, and peas in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, stir together the Miracle Whip and sugar until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Top the salad with shredded cheese and bacon bits before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider including chopped bell peppers or cucumbers in your salad. If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can substitute half of the Miracle Whip with Greek yogurt. Fresh peas can be used for a sweeter taste, and letting the salad sit overnight enhances the flavors. If you're looking for lighter options, explore similar vegan recipes that use avocado or tahini-based dressings.
Serving Suggestions
This Overnight Pea Salad makes a fantastic side dish for barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside a hearty main like June Harris' Pepper Steak. For a complete meal, consider adding crusty bread or serving it as part of a larger spread with other salads like Elizabeth Garner's Slaw.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep for up to 3 days, but take care not to mix in the dressing until you're ready to serve, as it may wilt the greens. To refresh the salad, simply toss it gently before serving, and add more dressing if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Pea Salad contains roughly 481 calories, with 9g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (247% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and potassium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1251mg per serving (54% 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, this salad is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it benefits from chilling overnight as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the greens.
What can I substitute for Miracle Whip?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute Miracle Whip with mayonnaise or a vegan mayo for a plant-based option. For a tangy touch, try adding a bit of mustard or vinegar to the mayonnaise for extra zest.
Is there a way to make this salad more filling?
Absolutely! You can add protein such as diced chicken, bacon bits, or chickpeas to make it more substantial. For a vegetarian option, consider adding quinoa or nuts. This way, the salad can be a hearty main dish rather than just a side.
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).