Southern Pea Salad Classic

This Southern Pea Salad Classic brings together sweet peas, smoky bacon, and a creamy dressing for a side dish that complements any barbecue or family meal. It’s a recipe that combines simple ingredients into something comforting and flavorful, perfect for those who love a balance of savory and fresh tastes.

I first made this salad for a summer cookout, and it quickly became a favorite. My family loves how the bacon adds a smoky crunch to the creamy texture of peas and cheese.

Ingredients

• One package of frozen sweet peas, thawed, or canned peas for convenience: Sweet peas bring freshness and a pop of color to the dish
• Two hard-boiled eggs, chopped: which add creaminess and protein
• Four to six slices of bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled: providing a smoky and crunchy bite. You can substitute with one cup of cooked ham if preferred
• Half a cup of chopped green onions or regular onions: for a mild sharpness and a touch of green color
• One cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese: which melts slightly into the salad, lending richness
• Quarter teaspoon of black pepper: to add subtle heat
• Half teaspoon of salt: to balance and enhance all the flavors
• Quarter teaspoon of garlic powder: for a touch of savory depth
• Half teaspoon of celery seeds or half a cup of chopped celery: to bring a bit of earthiness and texture
• A sprinkle of cayenne pepper: for just a hint of warmth
• Half a cup of mayonnaise blended with half a cup of sour cream: to create a creamy, tangy dressing that holds the salad together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Scoop and Mix Ingredients:

Combine the thawed peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon or ham, chopped green onions, and shredded cheese in a large mixing bowl. Take your time to ensure even distribution for balanced bites.

Season Gently:

Sprinkle black pepper, salt, garlic powder, celery seeds or chopped celery, and a dash of cayenne over the pea mixture. Stir thoroughly so each ingredient is seasoned well.

Whisk and Coat:

In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Pour this over the pea mixture, then use a gentle folding motion to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.

Chill and Serve:

Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour to let all the flavors meld and deepen. This resting time transforms the salad, making it taste even better.

Save

One of my favorite ingredients is the celery seed; it adds an almost mysterious little crunch and subtle flavor you might not expect. This dish reminds me of family gatherings where it was always the first to disappear from the table.

Storage Tips

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two days for best texture and flavor. Avoid freezing as the peas and dairy-based dressing do not freeze well, which can affect the texture and taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter dressing, swap half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce fat without losing creaminess. For a vegetarian version, eliminate bacon or ham and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to maintain that smoky character.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or ribs but also works well served alongside crusty bread or fresh corn on the cob. It can be plated on a bed of lettuce or tucked inside a sandwich for a refreshing crunch.

Cultural Context

Southern pea salad is a classic in American Southern cuisine, often seen at picnics and family barbecues. It embodies the region’s love for combining hearty ingredients with fresh produce and creamy dressings in a way that feels both homey and festive.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use canned peas instead of frozen sweet peas?

Yes, canned peas can be used as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to drain them well before mixing.

→ What can I substitute for bacon in this dish?

Chopped cooked ham works well as a substitution, providing a similar savory flavor.

→ How long should the salad chill before serving?

It's best to refrigerate it for at least one hour to let the flavors blend thoroughly.

→ Can I adjust the seasoning to make it spicier?

Absolutely. Adding more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can enhance the heat to your preference.

→ Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

You can replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives and omit the cheese for a dairy-free version.