Pig Salad
A creamy, crunchy green pea salad with bacon bits and cashews, perfect for picnics and potlucks, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the frozen peas into a large bowl.
- Add chopped celery, cashew nuts, chopped green onions, and bacon bits.
- Mix sour cream and Miracle Whip together.
- Toss the mixture with the salad ingredients until well coated.
- Refrigerate for 12 hours before serving for best flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the cashew nuts with sunflower seeds or slivered almonds. If you prefer a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream. Make sure to use fresh ingredients, especially the green onions, to enhance the flavor. This salad can also be customized with ingredients like chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots, similar to what's found in a Hawaiian Broccoli Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pig Salad as a hearty side dish at barbecues or potlucks, where it pairs well with grilled meats or sandwiches. It also complements lighter meals like baked fish or chicken. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Quiche Bars for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the salad taste even better the next day. Avoid reheating, as this salad is best served cold. If necessary, stir in a bit more sour cream or Miracle Whip to refresh the consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pig Salad contains roughly 567 calories, with 19g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1375mg per serving (60% 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! It actually benefits from sitting in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for bacon bits?
If you want a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tempeh or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to achieve a similar flavor without the meat. Crumbled feta cheese can also add a nice salty component if you prefer a different taste.
Is it possible to make this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as none of the primary ingredients contain gluten. Just double-check the labels on your bacon bits and Miracle Whip to ensure they are gluten-free, as some brands may add gluten-containing ingredients.
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).