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Classic Creamy Southern Pea Salad with Bacon

A close-up of creamy pea salad topped with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits.

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This recipe delivers a classic, creamy Southern pea salad, perfect for potlucks or as a simple side dish. It uses accessible ingredients and requires minimal preparation time.

Ingredients

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  • 2 (15 ounce) cans sweet green peas, drained
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Place the drained peas, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, and chopped hard-boiled eggs into a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth.
  3. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture.
  4. Gently fold all ingredients together until the peas and other components are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
  5. Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to combine.
  6. Serve cold as a side dish for gatherings or meals.

Notes

  • Prepare the bacon ahead of time to speed up the assembly process.
  • You can substitute the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • This salad tastes best when made at least one hour in advance, making it a great make-ahead potluck side.

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