Why Make This Recipe
Bacon Ranch Pea Salad is a delicious and easy side dish. It combines fresh flavors with crunchy textures, making it a great addition to any meal. The creamy ranch dressing pairs perfectly with the salty bacon and sweet peas, creating a salad that everyone will love. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or just a simple weeknight dinner.
How to Make Bacon Ranch Pea Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 1 cup cooked bacon (chopped)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the peas, bacon, cheddar cheese, corn, and red onion.
- Pour ranch dressing over the mixture and gently stir until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Bacon Ranch Pea Salad
Bacon Ranch Pea Salad can be served in a large bowl as a side dish. You can also portion it into individual servings for a picnic or potluck. It pairs well with grilled meats and can be a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes.
How to Store Bacon Ranch Pea Salad
After making your Bacon Ranch Pea Salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
Tips to Make Bacon Ranch Pea Salad
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. If you have access to fresh peas, use them instead of frozen for a crunchier texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of bacon or cheese to suit your taste.
- If you want a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the salad.
Variation
You can customize the salad by adding other ingredients like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes. For a lighter option, try using low-fat ranch dressing or Greek yogurt.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly for this recipe. Just thaw them before using.
2. How long does the salad stay fresh?
The salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days.
3. Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Absolutely! You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This can enhance the flavors.
Bacon Ranch Pea Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed) Can use fresh peas for better texture.
- 1 cup cooked bacon (chopped) Adjust amount according to taste.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded) Feel free to adjust cheese amount to taste.
- 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
- 1 cup ranch dressing Can substitute with low-fat version or Greek yogurt.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the peas, bacon, cheddar cheese, corn, and red onion.
- Pour ranch dressing over the mixture and gently stir until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.