Classic Creamy Pea Salad is a timeless, crowd-pleasing side dish that brings together sweet green peas, crunchy vegetables, savory cheese, and a rich, tangy dressing. Popular at potlucks, church suppers, picnics, and holiday tables, this old-fashioned salad is loved for its balance of creamy texture and fresh flavor. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and even better after chilling, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.
This recipe delivers that nostalgic, deli-style taste while using simple pantry ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients
4 cups frozen green peas, thawed and drained
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
Instructions
Prepare the peas
Thaw the frozen peas completely and drain well. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps keep the salad creamy rather than watery.
Make the dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Combine the salad
Add the peas, diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
Chill before serving
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall texture.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve chilled as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or comfort-food dinners. This salad is especially popular at summer cookouts and holiday buffets.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again.
Variations to Try
Add diced celery for extra crunch.
Swap cheddar for Colby-Jack or Swiss cheese.
Use green onions instead of red onion for a milder flavor.
Add a spoonful of Dijon mustard for extra tang.
Why This Recipe Works
The natural sweetness of peas pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy dressing, while bacon and cheese add savory depth. Using thawed frozen peas keeps the texture firm and fresh without cooking.
Final Thoughts
Classic Creamy Pea Salad is a dependable, old-fashioned recipe that never goes out of style. Easy to make and full of comforting flavor, it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at gatherings and earns requests every time.
