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Classic Pea Salad

nibbleboard.com/recipes/pea-salad

Prep:15 min
Cook:8 min
Total:23 min
Servings:8

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 8 slices bacon
  • 4 cups frozen peas, thawed
  • 3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed small
  • 1/3 cup red onion, diced

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the diced bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden, about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  2. Whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth.
  3. Add the thawed peas, diced red onion, cubed cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated in dressing.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Give it a gentle stir before serving.

Nutrition per Serving

438Calories
24gProtein
21gCarbs
29gFat

Chef Tips

  • Cut the cheddar cubes about the same size as the peas for the best texture in every bite.
  • No need to cook the peas — frozen peas are flash-steamed before freezing. Just thaw them on the counter or run under cool water.
  • The dressing tends to get absorbed as it chills. If the salad looks dry after refrigerating, stir in an extra spoonful of sour cream before serving.
  • Swap the cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
  • This salad holds up well for 3 to 4 days in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead side for cookouts.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving leftovers.

© 2026 Nibbleboard. Nutritional data computed from USDA ingredient databases.