🥗 Classic Southern Pea Salad 🌟
"Looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make? This Southern favorite combines sweet peas, crunchy bacon, and a tangy dressing for a delightful side!"
📋 Ingredients:
1 (16-ounce) package of frozen sweet peas, thawed (or canned peas, drained)
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
4 to 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled (optional: substitute with 1 cup of cooked, chopped ham)
1/2 cup green onions, chopped (or substitute with regular onions)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (or substitute with 1/2 cup chopped celery)
A sprinkle of cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
🥣 Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon or ham, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.
2️⃣ Season the Salad:
Sprinkle in black pepper, salt, garlic powder, celery seeds (or celery), and cayenne pepper. Toss gently to combine.
3️⃣ Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Combine and Chill:
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5️⃣ Serve:
Give the salad a final toss before serving. Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or on its own for a simple, satisfying meal.
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
🍴 Servings: 6-8 servings | Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving