Hey y'all! If you're searching for an easy, flavorful side that's always a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, or summer cookouts, this Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes will steal the show. With its creamy dressing, crisp veggies, and hearty cheddar, it's a nostalgic favorite that brings bright pops of flavor and color to any table. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required.
- Creamy and Crunchy: Perfect balance of textures with every bite.
- Versatile: Ideal for picnics, BBQs, lunchboxes, or as a refreshing side dish.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling in the fridge.
- Customizable: Easily adapted with your favorite mix-ins or dressings.
Ingredients for Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes
- 3 cups frozen green peas (thawed, not cooked)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 4 strips)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Thaw the frozen peas by placing them in a colander and running cool water over them for a few minutes. Let drain thoroughly. Dice the red onion, celery, and cut the cheddar cheese into small cubes.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
Add the thawed peas, cheddar cubes, red onion, celery, and crumbled bacon to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until well coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Give it a gentle stir, then serve chilled.
Notes for the Best Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes
- For extra crunch, add diced bell peppers or water chestnuts.
- Use freshly grated or block cheddar for better texture—learn why here.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and mayonnaise.
Variations of Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes
- Vegetarian: Skip the bacon or swap with smoked almonds for crunch.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Herby: Mix in chopped fresh dill, chives, or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Required Equipment for Classic Pea Salad
- Mixing bowl (large)
- Spatula or large spoon
- Colander (for thawing peas)
- Knife and cutting board
Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes Storage Instructions
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may settle. Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of the peas and dressing.
Serving Recommendations for Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes
- Pair with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or ribs for a complete BBQ plate.
- Serve alongside sandwiches, burgers, or fried chicken for a classic comfort meal.
- Enjoy as a light lunch with crackers or pita chips.
Pro Tips for Perfect Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes
- Always use very cold peas for maximum crunch and freshness.
- Let the salad chill for at least 1 hour—overnight is even better for flavor blending.
- Dice ingredients evenly to ensure every bite has the perfect mix of flavors—see more salad prep tips at Bon Appétit.
FAQ: Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes
- Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?
- Frozen peas are preferred for their crispy texture, but canned peas (drained and rinsed) can be used in a pinch—just note they’ll be softer.
- Is this salad gluten-free?
- Yes, as long as the bacon and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Double-check all labels for safety. Learn more about gluten-free eating at Celiac Disease Foundation.
- Can I make Classic Pea Salad with Cheddar Cubes ahead of time?
- Absolutely! It’s even tastier after chilling for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus recommended 1+ hour chilling)
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen green peas, thawed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
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1In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed green peas, cheddar cheese cubes, diced red onion, and crumbled bacon.
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2In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
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3Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
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4Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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5Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with extra bacon or cheddar cubes if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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