This Bacon Pea Salad is a beloved potluck staple—crisp bacon, sweet peas, sharp cheddar, and red onion tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. With just 6 simple ingredients and no cooking required (except the bacon!), it’s ready in 15 minutes and always the first dish to vanish from the picnic table.
Chilled, crunchy, and packed with smoky-savory flavor, it’s the perfect side for burgers, BBQ ribs, or holiday feasts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥓 Only 6 ingredients—pantry staples!
- ⏱️ 15 minutes total—no oven needed
- 💛 One bowl = easy cleanup
- 💸 Costs under $6—feeds 8 generously
- 🌾 Naturally nut-free & gluten-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 8)
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen petite peas, thawed
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup finely diced red onion
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp sugar, pinch of celery seed, or chopped hard-boiled egg
💡 Pro Tips:
- Thaw peas in cold water—drain well to avoid watery salad.
- Soak red onion in cold water 5 mins if too sharp; drain before adding.
- Use full-fat mayo—low-fat versions make salad runny.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Creamy, Crunchy, Foolproof)
1. Prep Ingredients
- Thaw peas; drain thoroughly in a colander. Pat dry with paper towels if needed.
- Cook bacon until crisp; crumble into small pieces.
- Dice red onion finely.
2. Make Dressing
