Creamy Bacon and Pea Salad

Name: Creamy Bacon and Pea Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces frozen sweet peas, thawed and drained; 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded; 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste

This classic pea salad is a crowd pleasing side dish that balances sweet peas with salty bacon and sharp cheddar cheese.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· July 16, 2026

dailyrecipesbook.com

Prep

15 minutes

Cook

10 minutes

Total

1 hour 25 minutes

Serves

There is something so comforting about a cold pea salad at a summer potluck or a family dinner. It combines the pop of sweet garden peas with the savory crunch of bacon and creamy dressing, making it a favorite for all ages.

My best tip for this recipe is to make sure your peas are completely thawed and drained well before mixing. If they are still icy or wet, the dressing can become a bit runny, and we want it to stay perfectly thick and creamy.

Ingredients

16 ounces frozen sweet peas, thawed and drained
6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1
Place the thawed and drained peas into a large mixing bowl.
2
Add the crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and diced red onion to the bowl.
3
In a small separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder until the dressing is smooth.
4
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss everything gently until well coated.
5
Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
6
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving so the flavors have a chance to mingle.

💡 Tips

This salad tastes even better the next day after the flavors settle in the fridge. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want a little extra crunch, add a handful of chopped sunflower seeds or toasted pecans right before you serve it.

#Salad #Side Dish #Easy Recipe #Potluck #Quick

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