Oh my goodness, you guys, if you haven’t tried a *classic pea salad*, you’re totally missing out! This salad is like a burst of spring on your plate, with fresh peas, creamy dressing, and the delightful crunch of red onions. I remember making this for family gatherings when I was a kid—my grandma would always say it was her secret weapon for potlucks! I love how the creamy dressing clings to each pea, making every bite a little explosion of flavor. Trust me, it’s refreshing, simple, and absolutely delicious! Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, this dish never fails to impress and brings a smile to everyone’s face.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious classic pea salad. I promise, it’s super simple and the ingredients are easy to find!
- 2 cups fresh peas – I always recommend using fresh peas for that sweet crunch!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The sharpness of cheddar adds a fantastic flavor.
- 1/2 cup diced red onion – This gives a nice bite and color contrast.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise – For that creamy, dreamy dressing.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Just a touch to brighten everything up!
- Salt to taste – Always season to bring out the best flavors.
- Pepper to taste – A little black pepper makes it pop!
How to Prepare the Classic Pea Salad Recipe
Let’s get into the fun part—making this delightful classic pea salad! First, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in those fresh peas, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red onion. It’s a colorful mix, and I love how the green peas pop against the cheese and onion!
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until it’s nice and creamy. This dressing is where the magic happens, so don’t rush it! Once it’s well mixed, pour that creamy goodness over the pea mixture and gently stir everything together until it’s fully coated. You want every pea to be dressed to the nines!
Now, here’s a crucial step—cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, the waiting is worth it! After it’s chilled, give it a quick stir again before serving, and you’re ready to impress your friends and family with this vibrant, fresh dish!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Pea Salad Recipe
- Quick and easy to make – You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy days!
- Fresh and flavorful – The combination of sweet peas, creamy dressing, and crunchy onions is simply irresistible.
- Perfect for gatherings and potlucks – Everyone loves a vibrant salad, and this one is always a crowd-pleaser!
- Vegetarian-friendly – A great option for those looking for delicious meat-free dishes.
- Versatile with optional add-ins like bacon bits – Want to elevate the flavor? Toss in some crispy bacon for a savory twist!
Tips for Success with the Classic Pea Salad Recipe
To make your classic pea salad absolutely perfect, here are some tips I swear by! First, always use the freshest peas you can find; they’re the star of the show, and fresh ones have that sweet crunch that frozen just can’t match. If you’re in a pinch, though, frozen peas can work—just make sure to thaw and drain them well!
Also, don’t skimp on the chilling time. Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes really helps the flavors meld together beautifully. You can even make it a few hours ahead for a stress-free serving! When you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir and consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra pop of flavor and color. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information for the Classic Pea Salad Recipe
This classic pea salad is not only delicious but also packs a decent nutritional punch! For a serving size of 1 cup, you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients you use. It’s a tasty side dish that can fit nicely into a balanced diet!
FAQ About the Classic Pea Salad Recipe
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh peas are ideal for that sweet crunch, frozen peas can work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess water in your salad.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Your classic pea salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Just give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing might settle a bit.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can! In fact, making it a few hours ahead—or even the day before—allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve!
What can I add to make it more filling?
If you want to make your classic pea salad heartier, consider adding diced cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits. Both options add a nice flavor twist and make it a more substantial dish!
Can I use a different dressing?
Definitely! If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can swap it out for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or even a vinaigrette for a tangy kick. Just be mindful of the flavor balance!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions for the Classic Pea Salad Recipe
Let’s chat about some ingredient swaps that can make this classic pea salad fit your dietary needs or preferences! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It still gives that creamy texture but with added protein and less fat! If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a vegan mayo or a cashew cream for that same luscious feel.
For the cheese, shredded cheddar is fabulous, but feel free to mix it up! Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a tangy twist, or you could even use a dairy-free cheese if you want to keep it vegan.
And don’t forget about the red onion! If they’re a bit too strong for your taste, diced cucumbers or bell peppers can add a nice crunch without overpowering the flavor. Get creative—this salad is super flexible!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for the Classic Pea Salad Recipe
Storing your classic pea salad is a breeze! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those delicious flavors for a bit longer. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving, as the dressing might settle.
Now, you definitely don’t want to reheat this salad—it’s best enjoyed chilled. So, keep it cool and refreshing for the ultimate taste experience!
Serving Suggestions for the Classic Pea Salad Recipe
This classic pea salad is so versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! I love serving it alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak—it’s a refreshing contrast that brightens up the meal. It also goes wonderfully with crusty bread or a light baguette, perfect for scooping up that creamy goodness. For a complete picnic vibe, serve it with some cold fried chicken or alongside a hearty sandwich. Trust me, this salad will steal the show at any gathering!
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Classic Pea Salad Recipe: 5 Reasons to Love It Now
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic pea salad recipe that combines fresh peas, cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine fresh peas, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and stir well.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh peas for the best flavor.
- You can add bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: classic pea salad recipe
