Classic Pea Salad: A Timeless Side Dish Recipe

 



INSTRUCTIONS: 

1. Prepare Ingredients:

  • Thaw the frozen peas if using frozen peas. You can do this by placing them in a colander and rinsing them under cold water.
  • Dice the red onion and celery into small, uniform pieces. Shred the cheddar cheese if using a block.

2. Make the Dressing:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

3. Combine Ingredients:

  • In a large salad bowl, combine the thawed peas, diced red onion, diced celery, and shredded cheddar cheese.

4. Dress the Salad:

  • Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Gently toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Chill and Serve:

  • Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the Classic Pea Salad for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together.
  • Just before serving, give the salad a final toss to ensure the dressing coats the ingredients evenly.
  • If desired, garnish the Classic Pea Salad with additional shredded cheese, bacon bits, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor and presentation.

Tips for Perfect Classic Pea Salad:

  1. Freshness Matters: While frozen peas are convenient, you can also use fresh peas when they are in season for a crispier texture.
  2. Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve, making it ideal for meal prep.
  3. Customize to Taste: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or hard-boiled eggs to enhance the salad's flavor and texture.
  4. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the sugar, salt, and pepper according to your preference.

By following these steps and tips, you'll create a delicious Classic Pea Salad that's perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish for everyday meals. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness of this timeless salad recipe