This Pea, Bacon and Cheddar Salad is a vibrant medley where sweet peas, creamy sharp cheddar and crispy bacon come together, creating a symphony of textures and flavors. It’s a refreshing and hearty dish, perfect for adding a burst of color and taste to any meal, be it a sunny picnic or a cozy family dinner.

A colorful bowl of Simple Pea, Bacon and Cheddar Salad set on a blue and white tablecloth.

Hey y’all! Today, I’m serving up a dish that’s gonna make your taste buds do a happy dance – Pea, Bacon and Cheddar Salad. It’s simple, scrumptious and soulful. Whether you’re planning a family meal or just craving something hearty yet light, this salad’s got you covered!

Now, let’s talk about why this salad is the bee’s knees. First off, it’s versatile. You can whip this up for a quick lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even as a standout dish at your next potluck. And the best part? It’s so easy to make!

How to Make Simple Pea, Bacon and Cheddar Salad

Shopping List

Frozen Peas (5 cups): These are the star of your salad, bringing a sweet, fresh flavor and a delightful pop of green. Frozen peas are easy to use and have a lovely, tender texture once thawed.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Shredded (1 cup): Sharp cheddar brings a rich, tangy depth to the salad. Its creamy texture melts beautifully with the other ingredients, adding a comforting, cheesy goodness.
Red Onion (1/2 cup, chopped): Red onion adds a mild, slightly sweet sharpness. It gives a nice crunch and a pop of purple color, enhancing both the flavor and the look of the salad.
Bell Peppers (1/2 cup, diced): Bell peppers contribute a sweet, slightly tangy flavor and a crunchy texture. They also add a splash of vibrant color, making the salad more visually appealing.
Mayonnaise (1 cup): Mayonnaise acts as the creamy binder that pulls all the ingredients together. It adds a smooth, rich base to the salad, balancing out the textures and flavors.
Salt (1/2 tsp.): Salt is a key seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the salad ingredients.
Black Pepper (1/4 tsp.): Black pepper adds a slight heat and a peppery zest, giving the salad a subtle kick.
Bacon (6 slices): Bacon introduces a savory, smoky flavor and a delightful crunch. It adds a layer of richness and a contrast in texture that makes the salad more satisfying.

Steps

A close up Pea, Bacon and Cheddar Salad showcasing the varying textures and colors.

First, thaw the frozen peas. You can do this by leaving them out for a bit or giving them a quick warm rinse.
Once they’re thawed, put the peas in a big bowl.
Add in the cheese, red onion, bell peppers, and mayonnaise.
Stir everything together gently but well.
Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, then add the crispy bacon bits.
Mix everything together so all the flavors get to know each other.
Let the salad sit in the fridge for 1-2 hours to get nice and cool.
Now it’s ready! Dive into your delicious pea, bacon, and cheddar salad!

Tips and Tricks for This Pea, Bacon And Cheddar Salad

Thawing Peas Properly: For the best texture, let the peas thaw naturally at room temperature rather than cooking them. This preserves their fresh, crisp quality.
Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is recommended for its strong flavor, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like smoked gouda or a mild blue cheese for a unique twist.
Crisping Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, lay the slices on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 400°F until crisp. This method often results in evenly cooked, flat bacon strips that are easy to chop.
Homemade Mayonnaise: If you have the time, homemade mayonnaise can add a fresh, gourmet touch to your salad. It’s surprisingly simple to make and can be customized with garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
Adding Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives can add a burst of freshness and color to the salad. Chop them finely and sprinkle on top before serving.
Letting It Sit: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours lets the flavors meld together beautifully. However, if you’re short on time, even 30 minutes of chilling can make a difference.
Pepper Choices: Using freshly ground black pepper can enhance the flavor more than pre-ground pepper. The fresh grind releases essential oils and aromas that are more potent.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the salad on a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for a more substantial dish. It can also be a great filling for a wrap or a sandwich.
Healthier Alternatives: For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise. You can also add more vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness and nutrients.
Leftovers: If you have leftovers, they can make a great next-day snack. Just remember that the texture may change slightly after refrigeration, especially the crispiness of the bacon.

Want more salad recipes? Check these out!

A round white bowl is filled with creamy, crunchy and colorful Simple Pea, Bacon and Cheddar Salad.

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