This vibrant Pea Salad is a refreshing classic that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Packed with tender green peas, sharp cheddar cubes, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing, it’s a side dish that brings a pop of color and richness to any meal. Whether served at a summer cookout or a cozy winter gathering, this salad always earns rave reviews.

What makes this dish shine is the balance of textures and flavors. The peas offer a naturally sweet crunch, while the smoky bacon adds savory depth. Creamy dressing ties it all together, and the cheese brings richness that rounds out each bite. Plus, it takes just minutes to toss together and can be made ahead—a huge win for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Pea Salad

Quick and easy to prep
Bursting with fresh and savory flavor
Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or weekday meals
Customizable with added herbs or different cheeses
Make-ahead friendly

What Kind of Peas Should I Use?

Frozen green peas are your best bet for this salad. They’re flash-frozen at peak freshness, giving you a crisp texture and naturally sweet flavor. Simply thaw them (don’t cook), and they’ll be ready to mix in. Canned peas tend to be too soft and won’t hold up well in the salad.

Ingredients for the Pea Salad

Each ingredient in this salad plays a key role in building the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory.

Green Peas: The star of the show, bringing vibrant color and crisp sweetness.
Cheddar Cheese: Cubed sharp cheddar adds bold flavor and richness.
Red Onion: For a punch of flavor and beautiful purple contrast.
Crispy Bacon: Smoky, salty crunch that elevates every bite.
Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base that brings everything together.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and lightens the dressing slightly.
Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the other flavors.

How To Make the Pea Salad

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Chop the red onion finely, cube the cheddar cheese, and crumble the cooked bacon. Thaw the frozen peas under cool water, then drain thoroughly.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Add peas, cheese, onion, and bacon to the bowl. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated in the dressing.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!

Easy Spinach Casserole

Serving and Storing This Pea Salad

This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prepping.

Serve it chilled, either as a standalone dish or as a vibrant companion to grilled mains or roasted proteins. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just give it a gentle stir before serving leftovers.

What to Serve With Pea Salad?

Grilled Chicken

Its smoky char complements the creamy sweetness of the salad.

BBQ Ribs

Rich and saucy ribs pair perfectly with a cold, crisp side.

Veggie Burgers

Add freshness and contrast to hearty vegetarian options.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Balances the rich, shredded meat with crunch and tang.

Baked Salmon

A lighter protein that enhances the salad’s natural sweetness.

Cornbread

Soft, buttery cornbread is a comforting match for the chilled salad.

Deviled Eggs

Perfect for potlucks and adds another creamy, savory note.

Crispy Fried Chicken

Classic comfort food made better with a bright, cold salad.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you love this crunchy and creamy pea salad, here are more salads to explore:

Try the bright and herb-packed Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad for something refreshing.
These crispy Easy Veggie Patties also make a great salad pairing.
Add sweetness and texture with this colorful Rainbow Bean Salad.
Want something creamy and classic? Don’t miss the Classic Chicken Salad.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic or add a twist? Maybe swapped in gouda or threw in some chopped dill?

I love hearing how others bring these recipes to life. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting salads on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to dishes!

Pea Salad

Author: Nora
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 to 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

If you’re craving a vibrant, no-fuss side that brings color, crunch, and creamy goodness to the table, this Pea Salad is a must-try. Bursting with crisp green peas, smoky bacon, cubes of sharp cheddar, and a tangy creamy dressing, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or quick family dinners, it fits beautifully among your quick lunch, easy dinner, or healthy side ideas. Whether you’re meal prepping or preparing for guests, this recipe keeps things fresh, flavorful, and fun.