Pea Salad(Good For Picnics)
A vibrant, creamy pea salad packed with green onions and crispy bacon, perfect for picnics and outdoor gatherings, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen green peas and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add chopped green onions and crumbled cooked bacon to the peas.
- Stir in sour cream until well combined.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Layer all ingredients in a large pan or serve directly from the mixing bowl.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or a splash of lemon juice. You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. If you prefer a lighter dressing, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Always taste and adjust seasonings like garlic powder and salt to suit your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pea salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside dishes like Cape Cod Fish Chowder or Mushroom Meat Loaf for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crunchiness of the peas and onions, avoid mixing in the dressing until you're ready to serve. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so simply chill it before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pea Salad(Good For Picnics) contains roughly 179 calories, with 9g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 815mg per serving (35% 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 instead of frozen for a crunchier texture. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then cool them in ice water before mixing them with the other ingredients.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the salad. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce mixed into the dressing can provide a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Yes, to make this salad vegan, substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Additionally, skip the bacon or use a vegan bacon alternative for added flavor.
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).