This Creamy Pea and Bacon Bit Salad Is A Tasty One
I remember the first time I came across this delightful salad at a summertime potluck event. The table was lined with a multitude of colorful, vibrant salads, each one more enticing than the last. It was a true feast for the eyes, with all those bowls filled with fresh, crunchy vegetables, creamy dressings, and an array of tantalizing flavors. As I tried to take a little taste of as many as I could fit on my plate, one particular salad caught my attention. It was this Creamy Pea and Bacon Bit Salad—simple, yet bursting with flavor. The combination of crisp peas, savory bacon, and the tangy dressing was absolutely perfect. I tracked down the recipe and enjoy making it from time to time. Although I must admit I make mine without the bacon, but I wanted to put the full recipe here as I had first tasted it for those that love bacon.
Did You Know?
Creamy Pea Salad is a classic dish that combines the sweet flavor of peas with the savory taste of bacon and the sharpness of cheddar cheese. The creamy dressing ties everything together, making it a perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners. This salad is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a great addition to your recipe repertoire.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 medium red onion, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated (or cut into small cubes)
- 3 cups frozen peas
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon bits from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain the fat. Set aside.
Personal Tip: Cooking the bacon slowly over medium heat ensures it becomes perfectly crispy without burning. You can save the bacon fat for other recipes, like sautéed greens or roasted vegetables, for added flavor.
Chop the Vegetables and Cheese: Chop the red onion into small pieces and grate the cheddar cheese.
Personal Tip: If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain before adding it to the salad.
Make the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grapeseed oil, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Mix well until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Personal Tip: For a lighter dressing, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will add a tangy flavor and reduce the overall fat content of the salad.
Cook the Peas:
Cook the frozen peas in boiling water for just a few minutes, until they are tender but still bright green. Drain the peas and let them cool.
Personal Tip: To retain the bright green color of the peas, immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water after draining. This stops the cooking process and keeps the peas looking fresh and vibrant.
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked peas, chopped red onion, and cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Personal Tip: For added texture, consider tossing in some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley. They add a burst of freshness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing.
Serve:
Transfer the creamy pea salad to a serving dish. Top with the crispy bacon bits. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Personal Tip: If you have time, letting the salad chill in the fridge for a few hours enhances the flavors, making the salad even more delicious when served.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 300; Fat: 22g; Saturated Fat: 6g; Carbohydrates: 17g; Fiber: 4g; Sugars: 5g; Protein: 9g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Bulk Buying: Purchase bacon, frozen peas, and mayonnaise in bulk. These ingredients have a long shelf life and can be used in various recipes, reducing the cost per unit and saving you money in the long run.
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DIY Dressing: Making your own dressing is more cost-effective and allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your preference by varying the amount of sugar and vinegar.
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Reusable Cooking Tools: Invest in reusable silicone storage bags for storing leftover peas and bacon. These bags are environmentally friendly and save money over time compared to disposable plastic bags.
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Energy Efficiency: Cook large batches of bacon and store the leftovers in the refrigerator. They can be quickly reheated and added to various dishes, saving time and energy during meal prep.
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Smart Storage: Store any leftover pea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for several days and can be quickly served as a side dish for other meals.
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Ingredient Substitutions: If you don't have grapeseed oil, you can use olive oil or another neutral-flavored oil. For a lighter version, you can substitute some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
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Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different herbs and spices to your creamy pea salad. Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can add a burst of freshness and enhance the overall flavor.
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DIY Seasonings: Create your own seasoning blends to save money and customize the flavors to your liking. A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of smoked paprika can elevate the dish.
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Learning and Sharing: Join online cooking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community. You can exchange recipes, cooking techniques, and meal prep tips with other home cooks, making the culinary journey more enjoyable and enriching.
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Creative Presentations: Enhance the visual appeal of your creamy pea salad by garnishing it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits. Serving the dish in a decorative bowl can make it more attractive and appetizing.
Frozen Peas Are A Good Veggie To Buy
Frozen peas are one of those pantry staples that are both convenient and nutritious. They’re harvested at their peak ripeness and flash-frozen to lock in nutrients, making them just as healthy as fresh peas, if not more so. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can use them in salads, soups, stir-fries, or as a simple side dish. When buying frozen peas, look for brands that offer peas with no added salt or preservatives. This ensures you're getting the most natural product possible. Frozen peas are also budget-friendly, offering great value for money, especially compared to fresh peas, which can be pricey and have a short shelf life. Stocking up on frozen peas is a smart choice for any home cook—they’re always ready to use, and they taste great!