Peas Pizzicato Salad
A fresh and creamy pea salad with bacon and green onions, perfect for a light appetizer or side dish, combining smoky, tangy, and crisp flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sour cream, sliced green onions, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Toss in the thawed and drained peas, coating evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for extra tang. If you don't have green onions, finely chopped red onions or chives can work well. This salad is best made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, similar to the way flavors develop in Mother Ethel Lockerbie's Baked Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Peas Pizzicato Salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a perfect complement to pork recipes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light sandwich or wrap, allowing the salad to enhance the flavors of your main dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The peas may lose some texture over time, but the flavors will continue to develop. Avoid reheating this salad, as it is best served chilled to maintain its fresh taste and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peas Pizzicato Salad contains roughly 204 calories, with 11g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% 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. However, you'll need to blanch them quickly in boiling water for a minute or two before cooling them in ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
How long can I make this salad in advance?
You can prepare this salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to cover it tightly and refrigerate. The flavors will improve as they meld together, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for gatherings or meal prep.
What can I serve this salad with?
Peas Pizzicato Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as part of a buffet spread. Consider serving it alongside dishes like Mushroom And Bacon Dip or Cheesy Baked Potatoes to create a delightful variety of flavors and textures.
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).