Russian Pea Salad
Russian Pea Salad offers a fresh, creamy, and savory combination of peas, sour cream, onion, and bacon bits. Its simple yet flavorful profile makes it perfect for casual gatherings or as a side dish, appealing to those who enjoy light, chilled salads with a touch of indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen peas.
- Add all ingredients to the peas and mix well.
- Chill the salad overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. If you want to add extra flavor, consider mixing in some diced red onion or fresh herbs like dill. Be sure to adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, and if you're looking to add a little crunch, try incorporating some chopped celery or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Russian Pea Salad as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or alongside sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Hungarian Pork Chops or can be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor, and consider serving it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits. To serve, there's no need to reheat; this salad is best enjoyed cold. If the mixture thickens, you can add a splash of milk or additional sour cream to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Russian Pea Salad contains roughly 49 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1054mg per serving (46% 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, you can use fresh peas if they are in season. Just blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then cool them in ice water before mixing with the other ingredients. This will help maintain their bright color and crisp texture.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. You can also skip the bacon bits or replace them with smoked tempeh for a similar flavor profile.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop. Just remember to cover it well and store it in the fridge. It's a great option for potlucks or gatherings as it can be enjoyed cold.
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).