Welcome to our recipe blog! Today, we’re excited to introduce a timeless dish that’s a staple in Southern cuisine: Classic Southern Pea Salad. This delightful salad combines sweet peas, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing, creating a refreshing and flavorful side dish. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners, this pea salad is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make this delicious salad.
Ingredients to Prepare
Before starting, gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
For the Classic Southern Pea Salad:
- 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
How to Make Classic
Creating this delicious Classic Southern Pea Salad is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for the best results.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Thaw the Peas: If using frozen peas, place them in a colander and rinse under cold water to thaw. Drain well and set aside. If using canned peas, drain and rinse them thoroughly.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces. Alternatively, cook and chop ham if using.
- Chop the Eggs and Onions: Peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs. Chop the green onions or regular onions if substituting.
Step 2: Mix the Salad
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, chopped eggs, crumbled bacon or ham, chopped onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle the black pepper, salt, garlic powder, celery seeds (or chopped celery), and cayenne pepper over the mixture. Toss gently to combine.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
- Combine with Salad: Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a gentle stir and transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional bacon or green onions if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Thawing Peas: If you’re short on time, you can thaw the peas in the microwave according to the package instructions.
- Bacon Substitute: For a healthier option, substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely and increase the amount of ham.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses.
Cooking Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
- Even Mixing: Be gentle when mixing the salad to avoid mashing the peas and eggs.
Serving Suggestions
- Picnics and Potlucks: This salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings, picnics, and potlucks. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or sandwiches.
- Dinner Side Dish: Pair with roasted chicken, pork chops, or fish for a complete meal.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for a touch of freshness and color.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 8g
Storage and Leftovers
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so no reheating is necessary. Give it a good stir before serving if it has been stored.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen or canned peas?
Yes, you can use fresh peas. Blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well before using.
Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the eggs with diced tofu, use vegan bacon or omit it, and use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream.
Q: What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a combination of Greek yogurt and a small amount of mayonnaise for a tangy twist.
Q: How can I make the salad spicier?
Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for extra heat.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes, feel free to add diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color.
Q: How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
Ensure the peas are well-drained and pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing. Additionally, avoid adding too much dressing initially and add more if needed.
Conclusion
Classic Southern Pea Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines sweet peas, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, potluck, or family dinner, this pea salad is guaranteed to impress.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this Classic Southern Pea Salad. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and let us know if you have any tips or variations you’d like to share. Happy cooking!