Pea Salad With Bacon
A refreshing pea salad with crispy bacon, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs, perfect for picnics, parties, or as a side dish for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by combining sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped parsley, dried dill weed (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Rinse the frozen peas in hot tap water until defrosted; drain and chill.
- Cook the bacon until crispy and chop into small pieces.
- Mix the chilled peas, bacon, and chopped green onions with the dressing.
- Serve the salad on a bed of lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing or substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace bacon with toasted sunflower seeds or crispy chickpeas for a crunchy texture. Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen for a more vibrant taste. Adjust the amount of green onions based on your preference for a milder or sharper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Pea Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches, making it a perfect side for summer barbecues. For a more complete meal, serve it alongside dishes like Bierax Casserole or Laurice'S Baked Beans. Garnishing with additional parsley or a sprinkle of paprika can add a pop of color to your presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pea Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the salad may become a bit watery due to the moisture from the peas and dressing. To refresh, give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid reheating, as the salad is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pea Salad With Bacon contains roughly 804 calories, with 14g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (103% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), and potassium (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1909mg per serving (83% 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, you can prepare the Pea Salad a day in advance. Just mix the dressing and let it chill in the fridge. However, it's best to add the bacon and green onions right before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you want a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tofu or tempeh for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds can add a nice crunch without meat.
How can I add more crunch to the salad?
To enhance the crunchiness, you can include diced bell peppers, chopped celery, or even slivered almonds. These additions will not only provide texture but also add vibrant colors to your Pea 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).