Southern Pea Salad Classic

This hearty Southern Pea Salad Classic has been my go-to side dish for family gatherings and potlucks for years. The combination of sweet peas, savory bacon, and creamy dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors that complements almost any main course.

I first made this pea salad for a Fourth of July cookout when I needed something quick that wouldn't wilt in the summer heat. It was such a hit that my mother-in-law asked for the recipe—a true victory in southern cooking circles.

Ingredients

• Frozen sweet peas: provide the perfect texture and sweetness without the mushiness of canned varieties
• Hard-boiled eggs: add richness and protein making this side dish more substantial
• Bacon: brings that irresistible smoky flavor that makes everything better
• Green onions: offer a milder onion flavor that doesn't overpower the other ingredients
• Shredded cheddar cheese: creates pockets of savory goodness throughout the salad
• Black pepper: freshly ground gives the best flavor punch
• Salt: enhances all the flavors throughout the dish
• Garlic powder: adds depth without overwhelming the delicate pea flavor
• Celery seeds: provide that classic southern flavor without the crunch of raw celery
• Cayenne pepper: just a touch wakes up all the other flavors
• Mayonnaise: creates the creamy base for the dressing use good quality for best results
• Sour cream: balances the richness of the mayo with a pleasant tanginess

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine the Base Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl gently fold together the thawed sweet peas hard-boiled eggs crumbled bacon chopped green onions and shredded cheddar cheese. Be careful not to crush the peas while mixing. The colors should create a beautiful mosaic of greens yellows and reds throughout the bowl.

Season the Mixture:

Sprinkle the salt pepper garlic powder celery seeds and cayenne over the ingredients. Distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the mixture ensuring every bite will be perfectly flavored. The celery seeds are tiny but mighty in delivering that distinctive southern flavor profile.

Create the Dressing:

In a separate bowl whisk the mayonnaise and sour cream until completely smooth and unified. This two-ingredient dressing is deceptively simple but creates the perfect creamy coating for the salad. The sour cream lightens the mayonnaise while adding a pleasant tanginess.

Combine and Chill:

Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and fold gently until everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This resting time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together and the dressing to slightly firm up around the ingredients.

Save This

My grandmother always insisted on using frozen peas rather than canned in this recipe. She claimed the texture was non-negotiable for a proper Southern pea salad. After years of making this dish I have to agree—the firm bite of properly thawed frozen peas makes all the difference between an average salad and an exceptional one.

Make-Ahead Magic

This salad actually improves with time making it perfect for busy hosts. You can prepare it up to 24 hours before your event and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to develop and meld together creating an even more delicious result. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Smart Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter version you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. The tanginess works beautifully with the other ingredients while reducing the overall fat content. For a vegetarian version simply omit the bacon and add a tablespoon of smoked paprika to maintain that smoky flavor element. Ham works wonderfully as an alternative to bacon and brings a different but equally delicious dimension to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Southern Pea Salad Classic pairs beautifully with grilled meats especially barbecued chicken or ribs. The creamy cool nature of the salad provides a wonderful contrast to spicy or smoky main dishes. For a complete southern meal serve alongside fried chicken buttermilk biscuits and sweet tea. I like to serve this in a clear glass bowl to showcase the beautiful colors and textures—it always draws compliments before anyone even takes a bite.

Southern Roots

This pea salad has deep roots in Southern American cuisine where practical homemakers created delicious dishes from available ingredients. The combination of preserved proteins like bacon with vegetables and creamy dressings was a practical way to create satisfying side dishes regardless of season. Many families have their own variations handed down through generations with slight tweaks reflecting regional preferences or family traditions.

Common Queries

→ Can canned peas be substituted for frozen peas?

Yes, canned peas can be used if drained well. Fresh or frozen peas offer a crisper texture, but canned peas provide convenience and a softer bite.

→ Is it possible to use another protein instead of bacon?

Cubed ham makes a great substitute for bacon, adding a smoky savor. Smoked turkey or roasted chicken can also be included for variety.

→ How long should the salad chill before serving?

For best flavor, chill the mixture for at least one hour. This allows the ingredients to blend and absorb the creamy dressing fully.

→ Can the dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate a day in advance. Stir before serving to refresh the texture if needed.

→ Are there cheese alternatives to cheddar?

Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp Swiss can be substituted for cheddar, depending on your preferred taste and texture.

→ What garnishes work best for serving?

Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives add color and freshness. Extra crumbled bacon gives a satisfying crunch on top.