The Best Classic Pea Salad

Classic Pea Salad is one of those simple, satisfying dishes that shows up at nearly every summer potluck—and for good reason. It’s creamy, crunchy, a little sweet, and a little savory, all in one cool and colorful bowl. This old-fashioned recipe takes just 10 minutes to throw together, using frozen peas, sharp cheddar, crisp bacon, and red onions, all tossed in a lightly sweetened mayo dressing that brings it all together. Chill it in the fridge, and you’ve got the perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, or holiday meals.

I grew up with this salad at nearly every family gathering—from Fourth of July BBQs to Sunday church picnics. There’s something comforting about it. It’s humble, nostalgic, and somehow goes with everything from burgers to baked ham. Even the picky eaters in my house go back for seconds.

Ingredient Breakdown – Why It Works So Well

• Frozen Sweet Peas (16 oz bag): Slightly thawed but not cooked, they give a fresh pop and hold their texture. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds sharpness and a creamy bite. I always recommend freshly grating for better melt and flavor.
• Red Onion (½ cup, finely diced): Brings a bold crunch. For a milder taste, green onions or shallots work as well.
• Bacon Bits or Crumbled Cooked Bacon (½ cup): Adds that smoky, salty edge that takes this salad from good to unforgettable. Be sure the bacon is cooked crisp and cooled.
• Mayonnaise (¾ cup): The creamy base that holds everything together. Full-fat mayo gives the best flavor and consistency.
• Sugar (1 tsp): Just enough to balance the tang and add that signature sweet edge.
• Salt & Black Pepper (¼ tsp each): Simple seasoning to round out the flavors without overpowering the freshness of the peas.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Pea Salad

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Step 1: Thaw the Peas

Place your frozen sweet peas in a colander and let them thaw at room temperature while you prep the rest of the ingredients. Don’t cook them—you want them to stay firm and fresh.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the sweetness or seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

To the bowl with the dressing, add your shredded cheddar, finely diced red onion, and bacon bits. Stir until well coated. Then, gently fold in the thawed peas. Be careful not to mash them—use a spatula to mix lightly until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and place in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and improves the texture. Give it a quick stir before serving, and garnish with extra bacon or cheese if desired.

This salad has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s reliable, affordable, and always disappears quickly. I often double the batch when I know we’ll have guests—and I never bring leftovers home from a potluck.

Variations and Additions to Try

• Switch the onion: Try scallions or sweet yellow onion for a milder flavor
• Add hard-boiled eggs: Chopped eggs turn it into more of a full meal
• Mix in diced pickles or dill: Adds a tangy bite that pairs well with bacon
• Use Greek yogurt or sour cream: Swap part of the mayo for a lighter twist

Sometimes I sprinkle a little paprika or chopped herbs on top for color when serving at events. It’s a small touch that makes it look extra special on the table.

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Perfect Pairings for Classic Pea Salad

• Grilled burgers or hot dogs: A classic BBQ side
• Pulled pork sandwiches: The sweetness of the peas balances the savory meat
• Fried chicken: Pairs wonderfully with crispy, salty mains
• Holiday spreads: Serve with ham, potato salad, and deviled eggs

Whether you’re bringing a dish to pass or simply making dinner at home, this Classic Pea Salad brings comfort, color, and flavor to any table. It’s one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to, year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use canned peas instead of frozen? It’s not recommended—canned peas are too soft and tend to get mushy.
• How long will pea salad last in the fridge? Up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
• Can I make this dairy-free? Yes—use dairy-free cheese and mayo alternatives.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. It’s even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.