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The Best Southern Pea Salad Recipe

  • Author:
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes Plus 2 hours Chill Time
  • Total Time: 15 minutes Plus 2 hours Chill Time
  • Yield: 6 to 8 servings

Description

This creamy Southern pea salad with bacon, cheddar, and a sweet tangy dressing is the perfect easy side dish for Easter, potlucks, and family dinners.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups frozen peas, thawed and well-drained
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • ½ cup finely diced red onion
  • 1 ½  cups sharp cheddar cheese (½ cubed, ½ shredded)

Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s preferred 😉)
  • 1½ tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or 1 tsp vinegar + 1 tsp lemon juice)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the thawed peas, diced red onion, and cheddar cheese to the bowl.
  4. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours to let the flavors come together.
  6. Just before serving, stir in the bacon so it stays crisp.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Storage Tips

  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
  • Give it a gentle stir before serving again

Best enjoyed fresh—freezing is not recommended