English Pea Salad is a fresh, bright side dish that brings together sweet peas with creamy dressing, crunchy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of red onion. It's like a little party in your mouth where every bite is a mix of flavors and textures that just work perfectly together. This salad is super easy to make and is a great way to add some veggies to your meals in a fun and tasty way.
Whether it's a sunny day barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or just a regular weekday meal, this pea salad fits right in, making your mealtime a bit more special and a lot more delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
This English Pea Salad recipe shines because of its simplicity and the delightful balance of flavors. The sweetness of the peas is perfectly complemented by the creamy mayonnaise, the tanginess of the cheddar cheese, and the smoky, crispy bacon. The red onion adds a slight sharpness that cuts through the richness, rounding out the dish beautifully. Plus, it's incredibly versatile; you can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences. It's a no-cook recipe if you're using frozen peas and pre-cooked bacon, making it a breeze to whip up even on the busiest of days.
What's more, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. It's one of those side dishes that both kids and adults can enjoy, thanks to its familiar yet flavorful profile. It also adds a pop of color and a dose of nutrition to any plate, making it a wholesome choice. Whether you're looking for something to bring to a potluck, need a side for your summer barbecue, or just want a tasty and nutritious addition to your meal, this English Pea Salad is a go-to recipe. It's a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming to prepare.
Ingredients
English Peas: Sweet and tender, fresh is best. Substitute: Frozen peas, thawed, if fresh are not available.
Mayonnaise: Creamy base for the dressing. Substitute: Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor. Substitute: Any preferred cheese that you like.
Bacon: Provides a smoky, crispy texture. Substitute: Turkey bacon or smoked almonds for a vegetarian option.
Red Onion: Brings a slight sharpness and color. Substitute: Green onions for a milder flavor.
Tips
- If using fresh peas, blanch them quickly in boiling water then cool in ice water to keep them bright and tender.
- Cook bacon until crispy for the best texture in the salad.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Dice the cheese and onion into small pieces to ensure they blend well with the peas.
- Stir the salad gently to mix the ingredients without crushing the peas.
How to Serve
English Pea Salad is a refreshing and colorful side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Its creamy texture and mix of flavors make it a hit at picnics, barbecues, and family dinners. This salad is not only delicious but also offers a beautiful presentation with its vibrant green peas, red onion, and golden cheese.
- As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats, roast chicken, or fish, adding a fresh, creamy contrast to your meal.
- At a Picnic or BBQ: Its cold, refreshing taste makes it an excellent choice for outdoor eating events.
- With Sandwiches: Serve this pea salad as a side with your favorite sandwiches for a light, satisfying lunch.
Similar Recipes
English Pea Salad
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh English peas or thawed from frozen
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cheddar cheese diced
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute, then plunge into ice water. Drain well.
- In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, bacon, and red onion.
- Add the peas to the bowl and gently mix everything together until the peas are well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
• Cook bacon until crispy for the best texture in the salad.
• Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Dice the cheese and onion into small pieces to ensure they blend well with the peas.
• Stir the salad gently to mix the ingredients without crushing the peas.