Introduction
Southern Pea Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and colorful side dish that’s a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and picnics throughout the Southern United States. With its refreshing blend of sweet peas, savory bacon, and tangy dressing, this salad is as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Rooted in Southern culinary traditions, pea salad has long been a part of church suppers and family reunions. Its simplicity, affordability, and adaptability made it popular in rural kitchens, where fresh or canned peas were pantry staples. Over time, it became a beloved regional classic, offering both nostalgic charm and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 (16-ounce) package frozen sweet peas, thawed (or canned peas, drained)
- 2 eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 4 to 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (or 1 cup cooked chopped ham, optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- Diced celery for added crunch
- Sweet pickle relish for a tangy twist
- Chopped bell peppers for color
- A pinch of paprika or cayenne for subtle heat
- Fresh dill or parsley for herbal notes
Tips for Success
- Thaw peas fully and pat dry to prevent watery salad.
- Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
- Let the salad chill before serving to enhance taste and texture.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayo.
- Cook bacon until crispy for the best crunch contrast.
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, chopped eggs, bacon (or ham), shredded cheese, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with extra bacon or herbs if desired.
Description
Southern Pea Salad is a hearty yet refreshing side dish featuring tender sweet peas, crisp bacon, and creamy dressing. It strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, with pops of sharp cheese and onion for contrast.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, serves 4–6)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
Classic Southern Pea Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that embodies the heart of Southern hospitality. Its quick prep and universal appeal make it a must-have for any potluck or casual family meal.
Recommendation
Serve this salad alongside grilled meats, fried chicken, or sandwiches. It’s also excellent with cornbread or as a side at barbecues and holiday buffets.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten the dish, swap full-fat mayo with a mix of low-fat mayo and Greek yogurt. Add more veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for nutrition and texture. Even with healthy tweaks, this timeless salad retains its classic charm and satisfying taste.