Cold Pea Salad with Bacon

Just imagine a warm summer day, where laughter and conversation fill the air as you gather with friends for an afternoon picnic. One dish that never fails to impress in such moments is a delightful cold pea salad with bacon. Ready in under an hour, this refreshing salad combines the sweetness of peas with the savory crunch of bacon, making it an irresistible addition to your summer spread.

This recipe is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual barbecues. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone seeking a quick, yet satisfying salad option. You can make it ahead of time; it stays fresh in the fridge for up to a few days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch that contrasts the soft peas.
• It’s quick to prepare, taking just 15 minutes of active time.
• The creamy dressing holds the salad together, giving it a rich flavor.
• This salad can be served chilled, making it perfect for warm days.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to whip up this salad:

For the Salad

• 2 cups frozen peas
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 slices of bacon

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Bacon can be substituted with turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Mayonnaise can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
• Cheddar cheese can be swapped with feta for a tangy flavor.
• Red onion may be replaced with green onion for a milder taste.

How to Make It

Get ready to create a crowd-pleasing salad in just a few simple steps!

Cook the bacon

Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and let cool, then crumble into pieces.

Combine the salad ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the frozen peas, diced red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Mix the dressing

In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Combine dressing with salad

Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and stir gently to combine.

Add bacon

Add the crumbled bacon towards the end and mix to ensure even distribution.

Chill

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the texture changes when frozen.
Reheat: not recommended; best enjoyed cold.

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly cooked bacon for maximum crunch.
• Ensure the peas are frozen until you’re ready to use them for best texture.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially the salt, since bacon can be salty.
• For a pop of color, consider adding diced bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled meats for a complete meal.
• Pair with crusty bread for a delightful picnic spread.
• Offer at holiday gatherings as a light side dish option.