Ah, summer BBQs! They evoke such joy and nostalgia, don’t they? Nothing says warm-weather gatherings like sitting on the deck with family and friends, the smell of grilled meats wafting through the air, and laughter spilling all around. One dish that always finds its way to our table—and usually gets devoured in no time—is this Creamy Southern Pea Salad. It’s delightfully simple yet oh-so-delicious, making it the perfect dish to bring to any summer shindig.
This salad has been a staple in my family for years. I fondly remember my grandmother whipping it up during our summer soirees. The bright green peas tossed with creamy dressing were a hit with everyone, and I can still hear her laughter when she saw how quickly we polished off the bowl. Today, I share that same love of this recipe, bringing a bit of nostalgia along with every bite. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this creamy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute BBQs!
- Budget-friendly: Made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Refreshing flavors: The combination of peas, cheese, and creamy dressing is simply irresistible.
- Customizable: You can mix and match ingredients based on your taste!
- Perfect for gatherings: Great as a potluck dish and always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Gather these delicious ingredients for your Creamy Southern Pea Salad:
- 4 cups frozen peas, thawed (sweet and tender!)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (for that iconic cheesy burst)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped (adds a nice crunch and zing)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (the creamy base—consider homemade for extra love)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for that extra tang)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (to brighten all the flavors)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (just a touch to balance the tanginess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (don’t skimp—seasoning is key!)
- 1/4 cup bacon bits (optional, but who could resist bacon?)
Pro tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped bell peppers or sliced olives for a twist. Fresh garlic also packs a punch if you want to take it to the next level!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get into the fun part! Follow these simple steps to whip up your creamy masterpiece:
- Thaw your peas: Place the frozen peas in a bowl and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. You can also run them under warm water if you’re in a rush. Just don’t cook them; we want them crisp and fresh!
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy. This is the heart of our salad, so taste it—feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking!
- Mix it all together: In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, chopped red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and gently fold it in until everything is coated. Remember, be gentle here! Overmixing will make the peas mushy.
- Season it up: Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final fold to distribute the seasoning well. If you decided to include bacon bits, toss them in now for an extra crunch!
- Chill out: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This waiting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, give it a gentle stir and serve it up in a lovely bowl. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs on top for a beautiful presentation!
Pro Tips & Variations
Cooking is all about experimenting, and this salad is no different! Here are some fun variations and tips to play around with:
- Herby twist: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or even basil to brighten things up and add depth!
- Protein-packed: Stir in shredded chicken or chopped hard-boiled eggs for an even more filling dish.
- Spice it up: A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can add some kick if you’re feeling bold!
- Make it lighter: Swap out regular mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy this salad. Play around with ingredients based on what you have available!
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Southern Pea Salad shines on its own, but you can also elevate your meal by serving it alongside:
- Grilled burgers or hot dogs for that classic BBQ vibe.
- A fresh green salad for added crunch.
- Warm cornbread or crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Your favorite summer cocktails or iced tea for a refreshing finish.
Just picture this creamy salad next to a plate of perfectly grilled burgers as the sun sets—that’s summer dining perfection!
Storage Tips
Leftovers? Oh, absolutely! You might even find that this salad tastes even better the next day as all those flavors continue to mingle in the fridge.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the creamy texture—thawing can lead to a less-than-appetizing consistency.
- Reheating: If you must, give it a quick stir and a taste test—sometimes, the flavors need a bit of a boost after refrigerating. Beware of the peas; they don’t respond well to heat!
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas would work beautifully, but they should be blanched briefly to maintain that lovely green color and crispness. Just a quick cook and then an ice bath to stop the cooking will do the trick!
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If mayonnaise isn’t your thing, Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative that still keeps the creaminess. Or even try a blend of mashed avocado for a heart-healthy twist!
How long can I keep the pea salad in the fridge?
This salad can last 3 days in the fridge if stored properly in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Definitely! Cucumbers, bell peppers, or even diced celery could provide a wonderful crunch and freshness. Get creative!
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Creamy Southern Pea Salad as much as I do! It’s a beautiful blend of flavors that truly captures the spirit of summer gatherings. I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Share your variations and thoughts in the comments below—let’s celebrate our love for food together!
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Irresistible Creamy Pea Salad Recipe for Summer BBQs Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Discover the ultimate creamy pea salad recipe, a must-try for summer BBQs that will delight your guests with its fresh, delicious flavors!
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A delightful and creamy Southern pea salad, perfect for summer BBQs. Simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
Keywords: Creamy Southern Pea Salad, Summer Salad, BBQ Side Dish, Easy Salad Recipe, Southern Cuisine
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