Classic Southern Pea Salad: A Creamy, Crunchy Crowd-Pleaser
Ever wondered why the classic southern pea salad reigns supreme at cookouts and holiday tables? This creamy, crunchy delight blends sweet peas, cheddar, bacon (or ham), and a tangy mayo-sour-cream dressing for the ultimate comfort side dish. A true southern tradition, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that celebrates heritage and home cooking.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Colander
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) frozen sweet peas, thawed or canned peas, drained
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped omit for vegan version or use tofu scramble
- 4–6 slices bacon, cooked crisp & crumbled or 1 cup ham, chopped; vegetarian: use smoked tempeh or omit
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped or regular onion finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese use your favorite cheese such as Colby-Jack or Gouda
Seasonings
- 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground for stronger flavor
- 1/2 tsp salt sea salt or kosher salt to taste
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder or ½ clove fresh minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp celery seeds or ½ cup chopped celery for texture
- cayenne pepper to taste; substitute smoked paprika for milder heat
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise use Greek yogurt or light mayo for lower fat
- 1/2 cup sour cream plain Greek yogurt for lighter version
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Core Ingredients – Thaw the frozen peas in a colander under cold water. Hard-boil, cool, and chop the eggs. Cook bacon until crisp and crumble, or chop ham if using. Reserve some bacon and cheese for garnish.
- Step 2: Chop the Add-Ins – Chop the green onions (or onion) and prep the celery or celery seeds. Measure shredded cheese for easy mixing.
- Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing – In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and celery seeds (or celery). Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to taste.
- Step 4: Combine Everything – In a large bowl, add peas, chopped eggs, bacon or ham, green onions, and cheese. Pour in dressing and gently fold to coat without mashing peas.
- Step 5: Chill & Serve – Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to overnight). Before serving, stir gently and garnish with reserved bacon or cheese.
Notes
For lighter versions, replace mayo or sour cream with Greek yogurt. Omit bacon or use tempeh for a vegetarian option. Chilling overnight enhances flavor blending.