Paula Deen Green Pea Salad
Ever had a salad that’s a party on your plate?
Paula Deen’s Green Pea Salad is that dish! It’s creamy, crunchy, and loaded with flavor, making it the perfect sidekick for any meal—or even as the star of your picnic table! This quick recipe comes together in no time and is sure to have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why make this recipe
You’ll love this salad for more reasons than one! First, it’s super easy to make, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time doing what you enjoy. Second, it’s a family-friendly hit that pleases even picky eaters—after all, who can resist bacon and cheese? And let’s not forget about cleanup: one bowl means fewer dishes to wash! 😅
Ingredients:
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 4 cups frozen green peas, mostly thawed
- 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 6 oz. cheddar cheese, cubed
- 3 Tbsp. minced fresh parsley
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 Tbsp. mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp. white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Follow these simple steps for a delicious salad:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and vinegar to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed green peas, chopped bacon, sliced red onion, cubed cheese, and parsley.
- Pour about two-thirds of the dressing over the salad and stir everything to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 to 4 hours. This lets those flavors dance together!
- Just before serving, stir in the remaining dressing to your desired creaminess.
How to make Paula Deen Green Pea Salad (Overview)
Making this salad is a breeze! Start by mixing the creamy dressing, which brings everything together and amps up the flavor. Then, throw together the peas, bacon, crunchy onions, and cheese—easy peasy! Just remember to let it chill in the fridge for a few hours. Pro tip: The longer it sits, the better the flavors meld. Don’t rush this part; trust me, it’s worth the wait!
How to serve Paula Deen Green Pea Salad
This salad shines when showcased in a beautiful bowl, but don’t stop there! Pair it with grilled chicken or serve it as a colorful side at barbecues—you’ll love the contrast of the crunchy peas against the savory bacon. The fresh parsley brings a lovely aroma that’s simply irresistible. Imagine a plate filled with vibrant green peas peeking out amidst the golden bacon bits—yum! 🌼
How to store Paula Deen Green Pea Salad
If you have any leftovers, don’t sweat it! This salad keeps well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. Reheating is not recommended, as it’s best enjoyed cold. A great make-ahead option for potlucks and parties!
Tips to make Paula Deen Green Pea Salad
- Use fresh herbs: Substitute dried parsley with fresh if you can for a flavor boost.
- Make it crispy: For extra crunch, throw in some chopped nuts or crispy onions.
- Dial up the flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice for a zesty twist! 🍋
- Swap the bacon: Going meatless? Try some smoked tempeh for that smoky flavor.
- Be careful not to overmix when adding the dressing—you want that creamy goodness without turning it into mush!
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Try adding diced bell peppers for more crunch, or swap out the cheddar for feta cheese for a tangy twist. Want a vegan version? Replace the bacon with crispy chickpeas and the sour cream with a cashew or avocado-based dressing. The possibilities are endless! 🙌
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight.
2. Can I freeze Paula Deen’s Green Pea Salad?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the salad before adding the dressing. Just thaw and dress when you’re ready to eat.
3. What can I use instead of bacon?
Try using turkey bacon, crumbled tofu, or even switching to a hearty plant-based protein for a delicious alternative!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Green Pea Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and vinegar to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed green peas, chopped bacon, sliced red onion, cubed cheese, and parsley.
- Pour about two-thirds of the dressing over the salad and stir everything to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 to 4 hours.
- Just before serving, stir in the remaining dressing to your desired creaminess.
