Pea salad is a timeless side dish that has graced picnic tables and potlucks for generations. This Pioneer Woman Pea Salad recipe takes the classic to the next level, delivering a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying salad that’s perfect for any gathering. Imagine a dish that combines the sweetness of peas, the salty crunch of bacon, and the sharp bite of cheddar, all enveloped in a luscious, seasoned mayonnaise dressing. This isn’t just any pea salad; it’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing recipe that embodies the spirit of home-style cooking, reminiscent of something you might find on the Pioneer Woman’s ranch.
pea salad in a bowl
Why This Pea Salad Recipe is a Must-Try
This pea salad recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors and textures. What makes this classic pea salad stand out?
- Creamy Dreaminess: The mayonnaise-based dressing is perfectly seasoned to complement, not overpower, the other ingredients, creating a creamy texture that’s irresistible.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of frozen peas is balanced by the saltiness of bacon and the sharpness of red onion and cheddar cheese. This harmonious blend makes every bite exciting.
- Simple and Quick: With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, this easy pea salad is perfect for busy cooks who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This make ahead pea salad can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for potlucks, picnics, and summer barbecues. The flavors meld together even better as it chills!
- Crowd-Pleasing Classic: Loved by both kids and adults, pea salad is a reliable side dish that always disappears quickly at gatherings. This bacon pea salad version adds an extra layer of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Your Pioneer Woman Inspired Pea Salad
To create this delightful pioneer woman pea salad, you’ll need just a handful of simple, readily available ingredients:
- Frozen Sweet Peas: The star of the show! Frozen peas offer a fresh, sweet flavor and a pleasingly firm texture compared to canned. 16 ounces is the perfect amount.
- Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayonnaise for the richest and creamiest dressing. It’s the foundation of that classic pea salad tang.
- Granulated Sugar: A touch of sugar balances the savory flavors and enhances the sweetness of the peas.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that are essential for bringing out all the flavors in the salad.
- Red Onion: Adds a sharp, pungent bite that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and complements the other ingredients. For a milder flavor, you can soak chopped red onion in cold water for a few minutes.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a bold, cheesy flavor that pairs wonderfully with peas and bacon. You can use pre-shredded for convenience or shred your own for even better flavor and texture.
- Bacon Bits: Bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that elevates this pea salad to another level. Real bacon bits are recommended for the best flavor. You can also cook and crumble your own bacon for an even more homemade touch.
photo of pea salad in a spoon
How to Make Pioneer Woman Pea Salad: Step-by-Step
Making this creamy pea salad is incredibly easy. Follow these simple steps for a perfect side dish every time:
- Prepare the Peas: Pour the frozen peas into a colander and let them thaw slightly at room temperature while you prepare the other ingredients. Slightly thawed peas will incorporate into the salad perfectly without making it watery.
- Make the Creamy Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This simple dressing is the key to the salad’s creamy texture and balanced flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and bacon bits to the dressing. Stir to combine, ensuring everything is coated in the creamy mayonnaise mixture.
- Gently Fold in Peas: Add the slightly thawed peas to the bowl. Gently fold them into the dressing mixture until they are evenly distributed throughout the salad. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the peas mushy.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cheddar pea salad for at least one hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the salad to reach the perfect cold temperature. This picnic salad is best served cold and is a wonderful addition to any summer meal or potluck.
Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Pea Salad
- Don’t Cook the Peas: Using frozen peas directly from the bag is crucial for maintaining their slightly crunchy texture. Cooking the peas will make them too soft and detract from the salad’s overall appeal.
- Freshly Grated Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheddar will provide a superior flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Crispy Bacon is Key: If using real bacon instead of bacon bits, ensure it is cooked until crispy and thoroughly drained of excess grease before crumbling and adding it to the salad.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the dressing before adding the peas and adjust the salt, pepper, or sugar to your preference.
- Make it Ahead: This pea salad recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to two days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually improve as it sits!
- Serving Suggestions: Creamy pea salad is a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, and BBQ. It’s also a classic addition to any picnic or potluck spread.
Enjoy this pioneer woman pea salad recipe – a creamy, classic, and utterly delicious side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
