Pea Cashew Salad
A refreshing pea and cashew salad with crispy bacon, green onions, and crunchy celery, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a light, flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Place in a serving container.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving and stir.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting some of the cashew pieces with sunflower seeds or sliced almonds. Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen for a sweeter flavor, though they will require cooking. If you prefer a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream. The salad can be made a day in advance to allow flavors to meld, similar to Hearty Potato Salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Pea Cashew Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or pork recipes, making it a great side dish for summer barbecues. Serve it alongside crusty bread or as part of a potluck spread. It also complements lighter fare like a Wilted Greens Salad, providing a delicious contrast in flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes too thick after sitting, stir in a small amount of milk or additional sour cream to loosen it. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the peas and bacon may be affected upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pea Cashew Salad contains roughly 122 calories, with 7g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! In fact, making the Pea Cashew Salad a few hours in advance allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just be sure to stir it again before serving and remove it from the refrigerator about 15 minutes beforehand for optimal taste and texture.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you're looking for a healthier option, plain Greek yogurt works as a fantastic substitute for sour cream. It provides a similar creaminess with added protein. For a dairy-free version, consider using a plant-based sour cream or blended silken tofu mixed with a bit of lemon juice.
Is it possible to add more vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! You can customize the salad by adding chopped bell peppers, grated carrots, or even diced cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as too many watery vegetables can affect the salad's consistency.
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).