Ingredients:

• 4 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Start by thawing the frozen peas. Place them in a colander and rinse them under cool water for a few minutes, or let them sit at room temperature until they are completely thawed. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Dice the red onion finely and cube the cheddar cheese. Set these aside along with the cooked and crumbled bacon.

2. Make the Dressing

• In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is smooth and creamy.
• Taste the dressing and season with a bit of salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference.

3. Assemble the Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, add the thawed and dried peas, red onion, cubed cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
• Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently stir until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix, as this could mash the peas.

4. Chill and Serve

• For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Once chilled, give the salad a quick stir, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve cold. Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or other main dishes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

The nutritional values below are approximate and based on one serving (assuming this recipe serves six).

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 280mg

FAQs:

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

• Yes, this salad actually tastes better when made in advance! You can prepare it up to one day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly.

2. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

• If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream. This will still give you a creamy texture with a slightly different flavor profile.

3. Can I add other ingredients?

• Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. Try adding chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced pickles, or even sliced radishes for extra flavor and crunch.

4. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

• Yes, you can use fresh peas if they are in season. Blanch them quickly in boiling water for a minute, then rinse under cold water to maintain their crispness before using in the salad.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Bacon Cheddar Pea Salad:

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this salad is so simple, the quality of the ingredients can really make a difference. Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor and thick-cut bacon for the best texture and smoky taste.
2. Thaw and Dry the Peas Properly: To keep the salad from becoming watery, make sure the peas are completely thawed and patted dry before mixing with other ingredients. This step ensures the salad stays creamy and holds up well.
3. Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The sugar in this recipe balances the tanginess of the vinegar, but feel free to adjust it based on your preferences. You can add a bit more or less sugar, depending on how sweet or tangy you like the dressing.
4. Chill for Better Flavor: Giving the salad time to chill helps the flavors blend and allows the dressing to slightly thicken, making each bite more flavorful.
5. Use Finely Diced Onion: Dicing the onion finely ensures it’s well-distributed throughout the salad without overpowering the other flavors. If you want a milder flavor, soak the diced onion in cold water for a few minutes, then drain before adding to the salad.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose a bit of its initial crunch over time, but it will still taste delicious.

Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise-based dressing, which can separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.

Reheating Tips: This salad is meant to be served cold, so reheating is not necessary. Simply stir well before serving leftovers to redistribute the dressing.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Bacon Cheddar Pea Salad is a satisfying and easy-to-make side dish that combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with a creamy texture. Perfect for any gathering, it’s a versatile recipe that you can adjust based on your preferences or available ingredients. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or holiday roasts, this pea salad is sure to become a favorite with friends and family. Simple to make and full of flavor, it’s a dish that proves a few basic ingredients can create something truly delicious!