Classic Pea Salad 🫛


This Classic Pea Salad is a timeless favorite that brings together the sweetness of peas, the crunch of fresh veggies, and the creaminess of a tangy dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or weeknight dinners. Packed with flavor and texture, this salad is as easy to make as it is delicious. With its vibrant colors and satisfying mix of ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s whip up this crowd-pleasing dish and enjoy every bite!


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple & Quick: Ready in minutes with just a few pantry and fridge staples.
  • Creamy & Tangy: The dressing is rich, zesty, and perfectly balanced.
  • Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins like bacon, cheese, or nuts.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, family dinners, or outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

  • 1 bag (16 oz) frozen peas, thawed (or 2 cups fresh peas)
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
  • 1–2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients

  1. Thaw the frozen peas by rinsing them under cool water or letting them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  2. Dice the red bell pepper, celery, and red onion into small, even pieces for a balanced bite.

2. Make the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  2. Taste and adjust the sugar, salt, or vinegar to your preference.

3. Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, diced red bell pepper, celery, and red onion.
  2. If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon for added richness and texture.

4. Add the Dressing

  1. Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.