This creamy pea salad has quickly become a spring salad that I make on repeat. It’s incredibly simple, but layered with different textures and flavors that make each bite extremely satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Pea Salad
Wondering what to make with a bag of frozen peas? This green pea salad is your answer! It’s a distinctly American dish that rose to popularity after the 1950’s when packaged convenience food (like frozen peas, mayonnaise, and packaged cheese) went mainstream. Now, I’m not usually a fan of packaged food, but this classic Midwestern and Southern salad highlights simple, whole food ingredients, which I do love! I also love that it’s super simple to make, it lasts for several days in the fridge, and it’s great for potlucks. Short story, it’s a great all-around spring salad for when the weather starts to warm, and you’d like something easy and economical to enjoy at gatherings and group events. Here are a few more reasons to love it:
- It’s a deli-style salad: Similar to my broccoli salad, potato salad, and coleslaw, this pea salad is a creamy, durable, deli-style salad. The lack of leafy greens means it’ll last for up to 5 days in the fridge!
- Everyone loves peas: Did you know that frozen peas are consistently ranked as a favorite frozen veggie? I sure love them, and during the fall and winter, I make my warm peas and pancetta side dish for Thanksgiving, while in the spring and summer, I make this cold pea salad for Easter.
- It’s super flexible: While I’m sharing the classic version with you today, scroll below for ways to add crunch, protein, and other flavors!
- Frozen peas: It’s amazing what you can do with a bag of frozen peas!
- Bacon: Adds smoky, salty flavor and a little crunch.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: You can use yellow or white cheddar cheese, but I went with yellow for a classic look and flavor.
- Red onion and fresh parsley: I always love adding fresh herbs and crisp onions to salads.
- Mayonnaise and sour cream: The creamy base of the dressing. I like to use my homemade mayonnaise for maximum freshness!
- Apple cider vinegar and honey: The perfect tangy-sweet combo to round out the creamy dressing.
🥗 Classic Pea Salad
⏱️ Time:
15 minutes
🍽️ Servings:
3–4 people
🛒 Ingredients:
- 2 cups green peas (thawed if frozen)
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped bacon (optional)
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare Peas
If using frozen peas, let them thaw and drain well.
2. Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine peas, red onion, cheddar cheese, and bacon.
3. Make Dressing
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss gently until everything is coated.
5. Chill (Optional)
Refrigerate for 30 minutes for best flavor.
🍽️ Serving Ideas:
- Perfect as a BBQ side dish
- Great with grilled chicken or burgers
- Serve cold for a refreshing taste
💡 Tips:
- Add chopped boiled eggs for extra protein
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version
- Add sweet corn for extra crunch and sweetness
