Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe
Creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor, this Southern Pea Salad is a timeless side dish that's perfect for cookouts, potlucks, holiday dinners, and family gatherings. Sweet green peas are tossed with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, red onions, and a rich homemade dressing for a refreshing salad that always disappears fast.
Whether you're serving it alongside grilled burgers, fried chicken, or barbecue, this easy pea salad is a crowd favorite.
The Origin of Pea Salad
Pea Salad became popular throughout the American South and Midwest during the 1950s and 1960s when simple, make-ahead side dishes became staples at church suppers, family reunions, and potlucks. Frozen peas made the dish affordable, convenient, and available year-round.
Today, it's considered a classic Southern comfort food side dish often found alongside potato salad, macaroni salad, and coleslaw.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make
No cooking required
Perfect make-ahead side dish
Great for potlucks and cookouts
Creamy, crunchy texture
Budget-friendly ingredients
Prep Time
15 minutes
Chill Time
1 hour
Total Time
1 hour 15 minutes
Servings
8 servings
Ingredients
4 cups frozen peas, thawed
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
½ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cup celery, diced
Dressing
¾ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Apple cider vinegar
Sugar
Salt
Black pepper
Mix until smooth.
Step 2: Add the Salad Ingredients
Add:
Thawed peas
Bacon
Cheddar cheese
Red onion
Celery
Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
Step 3: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
This allows the flavors to blend together.
Step 4: Serve
Stir before serving and garnish with additional bacon and cheddar cheese if desired.
Tips for the Best Pea Salad
Use frozen peas, not canned peas.
Do not over-thaw the peas.
Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor.
Chill before serving for maximum flavor.
Add diced ham for a heartier version.
What to Serve with Pea Salad
BBQ Ribs
Grilled Burgers
Fried Chicken
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Hot Dogs
Baked Beans
Macaroni Salad
Potato Salad
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pea salad ahead of time?
Yes. It actually tastes even better after chilling for several hours.
Can I use canned peas?
Frozen peas are strongly recommended because they maintain a firmer texture.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese provides the richest flavor and pairs perfectly with the sweet peas and bacon.
More Southern Side Dishes You'll Love
German Potato Salad
Macaroni Salad
Coleslaw
Cucumber Salad
Broccoli Salad
Loaded Potato Salad
Final Thoughts
This Classic Southern Pea Salad is creamy, crunchy, smoky, and incredibly easy to make. It's the perfect make-ahead side dish for cookouts, potlucks, holidays, and family dinners, delivering comforting Southern flavor in every bite.