Looking for a vibrant, refreshing dish that can stand out on its own or round out any meal? Pea Salad might be one of the most underrated yet absolutely crave-worthy additions to your table. It’s creamy, crunchy, savory, and just a bit sweet—a combination that wins people over bite after bite.

Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, holiday potluck, or a quick weekday side, this chilled salad is a winner. Made with green peas, cheese, red onions, and a creamy dressing, it’s a no-cook favorite that brings color and texture to your plate. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect Pea Salad doesn’t require much, but a few essential tools will make the process smoother:

Large Mixing Bowl: This is where everything comes together. Make sure it’s big enough to toss without ingredients spilling out.
Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Precision is key for evenly chopped onions, cheese, and any add-ins.
Measuring Cups/Spoons: For balancing the dressing components just right.
Spatula or Silicone Spoon: These are gentle enough to mix everything without smashing the peas.
Colander: Especially helpful for rinsing and draining canned or frozen peas.

These tools help ensure that each ingredient is well-prepared and combined without losing the salad’s visual appeal or texture.

Ingredients for the Pea Salad

Green Peas (fresh or frozen): The heart of the salad—they provide a naturally sweet pop and beautiful green color.
Cheddar Cheese (cubed): Adds richness and a mild sharpness that pairs perfectly with the peas.
Red Onion: Offers a punchy contrast to the creaminess and adds crunch.
Crispy Bacon (optional): If included, it gives a salty, smoky layer of flavor that complements the sweetness of the peas.
Mayonnaise: The base of the creamy dressing, binding everything together.
Sour Cream: Adds a tangy balance to the mayo, making the dressing more dynamic.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens the dish and enhances flavor depth.
Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasoning to round out the dressing.

How To Make the Pea Salad

Step 1: Prep the Peas

If using frozen peas, rinse under cold water in a colander until thawed. Drain well. If using fresh peas, blanch for 1-2 minutes and cool.

Step 2: Chop & Cube

Dice the red onion and cube the cheddar cheese into small bite-sized pieces. If using bacon, cook and crumble it now.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add peas, cheese, onions, and bacon. Pour the dressing over the top and gently fold everything together.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and makes the salad extra refreshing when served cold.

How to Serve and Store Pea Salad

Pea Salad shines as a cold side dish, best served in a chilled bowl or on a platter to keep its freshness. It’s ideal alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or potluck-style spreads. Add it to a picnic table, holiday buffet, or serve it in small cups for an elegant appetizer portion.

For storage, transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for 2 to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving again, as some separation may occur. Avoid freezing as the texture of the peas and dressing can become watery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the peas from getting mushy?

Always thaw frozen peas by rinsing under cold water instead of cooking. It preserves their firmness and color.

Can I make pea salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, letting it chill for a few hours improves the flavor. Just give it a stir before serving.

What other mix-ins work well?

Try chopped boiled eggs, diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even sunflower seeds for crunch.

Is there a lighter version?

You can swap the mayo for Greek yogurt or use a light sour cream to reduce calories without losing creaminess.

Does it work for meal prep?

Yes, portion it into small containers for grab-and-go sides or lunch accompaniments.

Can I use canned peas?

It’s not recommended. Canned peas tend to be too soft and lack the crisp texture that makes this salad shine.

Want More Salad Ideas?

Craving more cold, crunchy, and flavor-packed dishes like this Pea Salad? You might enjoy the Italian Grinder Salad—a meaty, deli-style bowl packed with bold flavor. Or keep it cozy with the California Spaghetti Salad, a pasta-based favorite that’s just as vibrant.

If warm-weather dishes are calling your name, check out the Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes for a refreshing veggie blend. For something more indulgent but still fresh, the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup works as a warm complement to chilled salads.

More salad-style options to explore include:

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If you make it, I’d love to know how it went. Did you go classic or add a twist? Drop your variation in the comments. And for more of my daily recipe experiments, head over to my Pinterest at LadyPlate and follow along!

Pea Salad

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 10 minutes + chill
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy, colorful Pea Salad is a cool and crunchy side dish perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or easy weeknight meals. Bursting with sweet peas, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and red onions, it’s tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing that’s both satisfying and refreshing.