What type of peas should I use to make southern pea salad?

Answer guidance: Explain why frozen peas are preferred over canned, and clarify that cooking frozen peas is not necessary. Mention the ease of defrosting and how the texture affects the final salad.

Can I make southern pea salad ahead of time, and how should I store it?

Answer guidance: Address how to prepare components separately to prevent sogginess, ideal refrigeration times (1–3 days), and note that flavors may improve after resting. Warn against freezing due to texture issues.

What are common ingredient variations for southern pea salad?

Answer guidance: List typical ingredients including peas, mayonnaise, onion, cheese, bacon, and options like hard-boiled eggs. Include notes on vegetarian substitutions, such as omitting bacon or swapping mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt, highlighting taste and texture changes.

How do I properly defrost frozen peas for southern pea salad?

Answer guidance: Describe simple thawing methods such as placing peas in a colander overnight in the fridge or letting them sit on the counter briefly, emphasizing that slightly frozen peas are fine for mixing.

How long does southern pea salad stay fresh in the refrigerator?

Answer guidance: Provide typical refrigerated shelf life, recommend storing in airtight containers, and warn about changes in texture or flavor after this period to help users plan consumption.

Southern Pea Salad Recipe: Creamy, Refreshing Side Dish Ideas

Name: Creamy Southern English Pea Salad Recipe for a Refreshing Side Dish
Prep time: PT-972201H23M16S
Total time: PT-486101H41M38S
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 16-ounce (about 450 grams) package frozen sweet peas, thawed but uncooked (canned peas can be used, drained); 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional); 4 to 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled, or 1 cup (about 150 grams) ham, cooked and chopped (optional); 1/2 cup chopped green onion (or regular onion, finely diced and optionally rinsed to reduce sharpness); 1 cup shredded or small diced cheddar cheese (Colby Jack can be used as an alternative); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can substitute fully or partially); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds or 1/2 cup chopped celery; Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)

Description

🌱 Enjoy a creamy and flavorful Southern English Pea Salad that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
🥗 This refreshing side dish combines tender peas, crispy bacon or ham, and a tangy dressing for a crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

Scale

1 16-ounce (about 450 grams) package frozen sweet peas, thawed but uncooked (canned peas can be used, drained)
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
4 to 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled, or 1 cup (about 150 grams) ham, cooked and chopped (optional)
1/2 cup chopped green onion (or regular onion, finely diced and optionally rinsed to reduce sharpness)
1 cup shredded or small diced cheddar cheese (Colby Jack can be used as an alternative)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can substitute fully or partially)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon celery seeds or 1/2 cup chopped celery
Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Thaw frozen peas in a colander over a bowl in the fridge or at room temperature; do not cook to keep peas crisp.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine peas, chopped eggs (if using), bacon or ham, onion, cheese, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, celery seeds or celery, and cayenne pepper if desired.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
4. Pour dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss to combine.
5. Refrigerate the salad for several hours or preferably overnight to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.

Notes

🥗 Prepare the salad a day ahead for enhanced flavor melding.
❄️ Prefer frozen peas over canned for a firmer texture; canned peas offer a softer alternative.
🍅 Customize by adding tomatoes, green peppers, dill, pickles, pimentos, or water chestnuts to suit your taste.

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Chill time: several hours to overnight
Category: Side Dish
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 170-220 kcal
Sugar: 2-4 g
Sodium: 300-500 mg
Fat: 12-18 g
Saturated Fat: 3-6 g
Unsaturated Fat: Not specified
Trans Fat: Not specified
Carbohydrates: 10-15 g
Fiber: 2-3 g
Protein: 6-9 g
Cholesterol: 30-55 mg

Keywords: English pea salad, Southern side dish, creamy pea salad, refreshing salad