By This Classic Pea Salad balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Classic Pea Salad captures the essence of salads while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Classic Pea Salad becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste as needed
4 cups frozen peas, thawed
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 medium red onion, diced
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, cubed small
How To Make Classic Pea Salad
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt until combined.
Add peas, bacon, onion, and cheese to bowl and gently stir to coat in dressing.
Chill until ready to serve, but at least 1 hour. Garnish with more crispy bacon if desired before serving. Enjoy!
PREPARATION STEPS
Add peas, bacon, onion, and cheese to bowl and gently stir to coat in dressing.
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt until combined.
Chill until ready to serve, but at least 1 hour. Garnish with more crispy bacon if desired before serving. Enjoy!
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 0 min | Total: 15 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~220 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Whole grain bread; Soup; Grilled protein
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
