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–+ servings

Southern Pea Salad Classic

A delicious and colorful Southern Pea Salad Classic, perfect for potlucks and family dinners, packed with protein from bacon or ham, creamy dressing, and fresh vegetables.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Southern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 1 16-ounce package frozen sweet peas, thawed (or canned peas) Use thawed for best texture.
  • 2 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 4 to 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled (or 1 cup cooked and chopped ham, optional) Bacon is optional; can substitute with ham.
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions (or regular onions, if preferred)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any preferred cheese) Different cheeses can be used for variation.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (or 1/2 cup chopped celery) Celery seeds are optional; celery can be used instead.
  • A sprinkle cayenne pepper Adjust amount according to spice preference.
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend together wonderfully.

Serving

  • Serve the Southern Pea Salad Classic cold, straight from the refrigerator. Garnish with additional green onions or crumbles of bacon on top.

Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Remember to stir before serving again.

Notes

Ensure that the peas are fully thawed or heated through if using canned peas for the best texture. For added flavor, try different cheeses like pepper jack or feta. Adjust the amount of bacon, ham, or veggies according to preference. You can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the bacon or ham.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 15gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3g
Keyword Comfort Food, easy salad, Pea Salad, Potluck Recipe, Southern Cuisine
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