Are you looking for a refreshing and satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with your summer BBQ? This creamy pea salad with bacon and cheese is a delightful addition to any meal. Known as a classic pea salad, it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the sweetness of peas with the savory crunch of bacon, making it an irresistible option for gatherings.
This cold pea salad is not just another vegetable side dish; it’s loaded with flavor and texture, thanks to the creamy dressing and the addition of cheese. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or just craving a quick and easy salad, this bacon pea salad is sure to impress your friends and family with its vibrant colors and fantastic taste.
A Colorful Addition to Your Summer BBQ
If you are searching for a bright and satisfying side dish to complement your summer BBQ, look no further than this Creamy Pea Salad with Bacon and Cheese. This delightful recipe, often referred to as a classic pea salad, brings together the sweetness of fresh green peas and the savory crunch of crispy bacon, making it an irresistible choice for gatherings.
This Cold Pea Salad is not just another vegetable side dish; it’s a vibrant medley of flavors and textures. The creamy dressing, combined with shredded cheddar cheese and crunchy bacon, creates a refreshing option that can easily steal the spotlight at any potluck or picnic.
Ingredients That Shine
To prepare this Easy Pea Salad, you will need a handful of simple ingredients. Fresh or frozen green peas serve as the base, offering a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the richness of bacon. The addition of crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar elevates the dish, while a dash of red onion adds a subtle bite.
The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise and a hint of apple cider vinegar, ties everything together, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Garnished with fresh parsley, the salad not only tastes great but looks appealing too, making it a standout on your picnic table.
Preparation Made Simple
Making this Creamy Pea Salad with Bacon is straightforward. Start by preparing the peas; if you opt for fresh ones, blanch them briefly to bring out their vibrant color and tender texture. For frozen peas, just thaw them and you’re set.
Next, crisp up your bacon in a skillet until golden brown, then crumble it into delightful pieces. The combination of textures with the peas and crunchy bacon adds a fun element to this summer side dish. Combine all the ingredients with the dressing, and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator for a bit.
Perfect for Any Gathering
This Pea Salad with Bacon Cheese is ideal for summer gatherings, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a casual picnic in the park. Its vibrant colors evoke a cheerful atmosphere, making it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats and other summer staples.
What’s more, this Loaded Pea Salad can easily be doubled or adjusted for larger gatherings, ensuring that there’s plenty to go around. Your friends and family will appreciate the refreshing flavors and will likely request the recipe for their own culinary endeavors.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Pea Salad not only pleases the palate but is also a satisfying addition to your meal. With about 320 calories per serving, it provides a nice balance of protein and carbohydrates while still being a vegetable side dish.
Consider pairing this salad with grilled chicken or steak to create a well-rounded meal. The Pea and Cheese Salad can also be served alongside crusty bread for a delightful brunch option. It’s versatile enough to fit in at any occasion!
Conclusion: A Summertime Favorite
With its vibrant green peas, crispy bacon, and creamy dressing, this Creamy Pea Salad is destined to become a summertime favorite. Whether you’re at a BBQ or enjoying a casual outdoor meal, this salad will not only enhance your table setting but also leave everyone wanting more.
So, go ahead and add this classic to your repertoire of Pea Salad Recipes. You’ll find that it’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and the perfect way to enjoy the freshness of summer produce.
A Refreshing and Flavorful Pea Salad Recipe
This creamy pea salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring sweet green peas, crispy bacon, and a tangy dressing. It’s a perfect side for summer BBQs and a wonderful option for potlucks or picnics.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen green peas, thawed
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peas: If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender. Drain and cool. If using frozen peas, simply thaw them.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
- Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the peas, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped red onion to the dressing. Stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 24g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
