When it comes to easy and delicious summer dishes, Bacon Pea Salad stands out as a favorite. This dish combines the crunch of fresh ingredients with the savory taste of bacon, creating a refreshing side that is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a delightful quick lunch. With its creamy dressing and delightful crunch, it’s a salad that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It is not just a salad; it is a flavor-packed experience that bursts with freshness and satisfaction, making it a must-have at any gathering.

Ingredients

• For the Salad:
  • 2 cups frozen peas, thawed. Make sure to use high-quality peas, as they provide a sweet and tender texture.
  • 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped. For the best flavor, opt for thick-cut bacon which offers a more substantial bite.
  • 1 medium red onion, finely chopped. Red onion adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the salad.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded. Aged cheddar enhances the flavor profile with its robust, tangy notes.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for maximum juiciness and flavor.
  • 1 cup diced celery. Celery not only provides crunch but also a refreshing taste that balances the richness of the bacon.
• For the Dressing:
  • 1 cup mayonnaise. For a lighter option, consider using reduced-fat mayonnaise or a yogurt-based dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. This adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar. This balances the acidity of the vinegar and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste. Season generously to elevate the dish—taste and adjust to your preference.

Note: For a healthier option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing. This substitution will give a tangy flavor while cutting down on calories. Also, choose organic bacon for a cleaner flavor, as it tends to be less processed and more flavorful.

Steps / Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the bacon. Place the slices in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove and drain on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces, allowing the excess grease to be absorbed.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, chopped red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced celery. Stir gently to mix, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed for balanced flavor in every bite.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing. Whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the dressing is well-seasoned and has a good balance of flavors.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated. Use a spatula or large spoon to ensure an even distribution of the dressing without crushing the delicate ingredients.
5. Fold in the chopped bacon last, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the salad, allowing the smoky flavor to permeate the entire dish.
6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. The chilling time is crucial, as it enhances the taste and texture. The salad can be made a few hours ahead of time or even the day before for convenience.
7. Serve cold. Enjoy the savory flavor combinations that make this Bacon Pea Salad a delightful addition to any meal! The contrast of the creamy dressing with the crisp vegetables creates a refreshing experience.

Tips & Tricks

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best served cold, so chilling it again before serving may enhance its flavors.
• Make-Ahead: This salad is perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare it in the morning for a quick lunch or picnic later in the day. The flavors will deepen and improve as they sit.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the bacon, as it can become too brittle. You want it crispy but still tender enough to mix into the salad. Also, be cautious not to overdress the salad to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Pro Tip: For added crunch, consider topping the salad with some toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts before serving. This extra layer of texture will elevate the dish even further.

Variations

For those looking to customize their Bacon Pea Salad, consider some of these variations: Check out our related guide for more tips.

• For a vegan version, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh and use a plant-based mayo to maintain the creamy texture.
• To make it gluten-free, ensure that the dressing and other ingredients do not contain gluten additives. Many brands offer gluten-free mayonnaise, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish.
• Add some diced bell peppers for a pop of color and extra crunch. Red, yellow, or orange peppers can enhance the visual appeal and add a sweet flavor contrast.

Serving Suggestions

This Bacon Pea Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, and is a wonderful addition to any summer picnic or barbecue spread. Serve it alongside dishes like Taco Rice or Crockpot Swedish Meatballs for a complete meal. For garnishing, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill adds a nice touch, enhancing both the flavor and the presentation. Consider serving this salad in a clear bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Print

Bacon Pea Salad

Recipe by m h

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4 +

⏱️

Prep Time

30 min

🍳

Cook Time

10 min

🔥

Calories

—

When it comes to easy and delicious summer dishes, Bacon Pea Salad stands out as a favorite. This dish combines the crunch of fresh ingredients with the savory taste of bacon, creating a refreshing side that is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a delightful quick lunch. With its creamy dressing and delightful crunch, it’s a salad that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It is not just a salad; it is a flavor-packed experience that bursts with freshness and satisfaction, making it a must-have at any gathering.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
• 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1.

Begin by cooking the bacon. Place the slices in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove and drain on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces, allowing the excess grease to be absorbed.

2.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, chopped red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced celery. Stir gently to mix, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed for balanced flavor in every bite.

3.

In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing. Whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the dressing is well-seasoned and has a good balance of flavors.

4.

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated. Use a spatula or large spoon to ensure an even distribution of the dressing without crushing the delicate ingredients.

5.

Fold in the chopped bacon last, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the salad, allowing the smoky flavor to permeate the entire dish.

6.

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. The chilling time is crucial, as it enhances the taste and texture. The salad can be made a few hours ahead of time or even the day before for convenience.

7.

Serve cold. Enjoy the savory flavor combinations that make this Bacon Pea Salad a delightful addition to any meal!