Welcome to our kitchen, where we celebrate the simple joys of classic comfort foods. Today, we’re excited to share a beloved Southern dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying: the Classic Southern Pea Salad. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or as a delightful side dish any time of the year. With its combination of sweet peas, creamy dressing, and savory toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Recipe
Southern Pea Salad is a timeless dish that brings together the best of Southern flavors. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tangy, with a creamy texture that’s both comforting and delicious. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether you prefer bacon or ham, green onions or regular onions. It’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days or last-minute potlucks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (16-ounce) package of frozen sweet peas, thawed (canned peas work too)
- 2 eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 4 to 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled (or 1 cup of cooked and chopped ham, optional)
- 1/2 cup of chopped green onions (substitute with regular onions if preferred)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to use your favorite cheese)
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of celery seeds (or 1/2 cup of chopped celery)
- A sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
Kitchen Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
Directions
Combine the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed sweet peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon or chopped ham (if using), chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Season
- Sprinkle in the black pepper, salt, garlic powder, celery seeds (or chopped celery), and a dash of cayenne. Stir thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Dress It Up
- In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream until they form a smooth mixture. Pour this dressing over the pea mixture and gently stir to coat all the ingredients.
Chill and Serve
- Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving. This time allows the flavors to blend together wonderfully.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
- Protein Options: If you’re not a fan of bacon, try using diced ham, turkey, or even grilled chicken for a different twist.
- Vegetable Variations: Add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.
- Make it Healthier: Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use a light mayonnaise to reduce the calorie content.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as the dressing may separate slightly.
Pairing Suggestions
Classic Southern Pea Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken, ribs, or steak. It’s also a great accompaniment to fried chicken or a simple sandwich. For a complete Southern meal, serve it alongside cornbread and a glass of sweet tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use canned peas. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to the salad.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
Is there a way to make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
Call to Action
We hope you enjoy this Classic Southern Pea Salad as much as we do! If you give this recipe a try, please leave a comment below to share your experience. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!
Print
Classic Southern Pea Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
Ingredients
Instructions
Combine the Salad:
Season:
Dress It Up:
Chill and Serve:
Enjoy:- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 250 kcal