Pea salad is a classic, crowd-pleasing side dish known for its creamy texture and delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.
This recipe combines tender peas, sharp cheddar cheese, and crunchy red onion in a rich, tangy dressing made with sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of sugar.
It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners.
Simple to make and even better after chilling, this salad is sure to become a favorite on your table!
Ingredients:
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
4 cups frozen peas, thawed
1/2 medium red onion, diced
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, cubed small
Instructions:
Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
Add the thawed peas, diced red onion, and cubed cheddar cheese to the bowl.
Gently toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Get creative with this pea salad by adding your favorite ingredients!
For extra crunch, toss in crispy bacon bits, chopped celery, or sliced radishes.
Want more protein? Diced ham or hard-boiled eggs make great additions.
Swap cheddar for other cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or mayo.
Be sure to thaw the peas completely and pat them dry to avoid a watery salad.
Let the salad chill for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors and create a perfectly creamy texture.
To keep your pea salad fresh, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
It will stay good for up to 3 days.
Before serving again, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing.
Avoid freezing, as the creamy dressing may separate, and the peas could become mushy upon thawing.
If preparing the salad in advance, consider adding the cheese and any crunchy toppings just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Pea salad is a nutrient-rich dish that provides a balance of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Peas are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and manganese.
The cheddar cheese adds protein, calcium, and healthy fats, while the red onion offers antioxidants and a boost of flavor.
The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise and sour cream, contributes to the calorie and fat content, but can be lightened by using reduced-fat or Greek yogurt alternatives.
Keep portion sizes in mind, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake, as the creamy ingredients can increase the overall fat and calorie count.
Enjoy this delicious salad as part of a balanced meal!