Classic Pea Salad With Bacon Recipe

There's something irresistibly nostalgic about a bowl of Classic Pea Salad With Bacon on the picnic table. The combination of sweet green peas, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy dressing brings back memories of backyard barbecues and potlucks with family and friends.

this Recipe

I first tasted this timeless side dish at my grandmother’s summer cookout, where it sat proudly beside the potato salad and deviled eggs. One bite and I was hooked—the creamy, smoky, tangy-sweet flavor was unlike anything else. And best of all? It comes together in just minutes with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Whether you're hosting a holiday meal, a summer gathering, or just want an easy make-ahead lunch, this salad is sure to please. Let’s talk about why it belongs in your rotation.

Why You'll Love This Classic Pea Salad With Bacon

Get ready to add a new favorite to your list of go-to sides. This Classic Pea Salad With Bacon checks every box for flavor, ease, and crowd-pleasing appeal.

First and foremost, it's incredibly quick to make. With no stove time beyond crisping the bacon, the rest comes together in a single bowl. You can whip it up in under 15 minutes—perfect for last-minute invites or busy weeknights.

It’s budget-friendly too. Frozen peas, mayo, a few pantry staples, and a handful of bacon and cheese—that’s all you need. It delivers big flavor without breaking the bank.

The texture is unbeatable. You’ve got the pop of peas, the crunch of bacon, the chewiness of cheese cubes, and the creaminess of the dressing. Every bite is dynamic and satisfying.

And best of all, it’s a make-ahead dream. This salad actually tastes better after chilling for a couple of hours, giving the flavors time to meld. It’s the perfect prep-ahead dish for potlucks and holiday tables.

Once you try it, you'll understand why this dish has stood the test of time. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients that make it so special.

Ingredients Notes

What makes this Classic Pea Salad With Bacon truly shine is how a handful of humble ingredients come together to create something crave-worthy. Here’s what makes each one important:

Frozen green peas are the star of the show. Choose petite peas if you can find them—they're sweeter and more tender. No need to cook them either; just thaw and drain. Their natural sweetness and crisp texture balance beautifully with the salty, savory elements in the salad.

Bacon adds that essential smoky crunch. I recommend frying it until it's just crisp, then letting it drain fully before chopping. You want clean, crunchy bits that won’t turn soggy once mixed into the creamy dressing.

Cheddar cheese brings richness and tang. I prefer using sharp cheddar cut into small cubes rather than shredded—it gives the salad a heartier texture and keeps the cheese from disappearing into the dressing.

Red onion adds a welcome sharpness that cuts through the creamy base. If raw onion isn’t your thing, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their bite. You’ll still get the flavor without the overpowering aftertaste.

For the dressing, a simple mix of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar does the trick. The mayo gives it creaminess, the vinegar brightens it up, and the sugar ties it all together with a slight sweetness that complements the peas.

You don’t need any fancy equipment here—just a good knife, a mixing bowl, and maybe a small skillet for the bacon. Easy cleanup, too!

How To Make This Classic Pea Salad With Bacon

Putting together this Classic Pea Salad With Bacon is as easy as it gets. Once everything is prepped, you simply mix and chill—no complicated steps required.

Start by cooking your bacon. Place it in a cold skillet and turn the heat to medium, letting it slowly render and crisp. Once golden and crunchy, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate and let it cool completely before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

While the bacon cools, measure out your frozen peas. Place them in a colander and run them under cold water until thawed. Shake off any excess water and let them drain thoroughly—you don’t want soggy salad.

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You’re looking for a sweet-tangy balance that will cling nicely to the peas.

Add the peas, chopped bacon, cheddar cheese cubes, and red onion to the bowl. Gently fold everything together, being careful not to mash the peas. Make sure everything is evenly coated with that luscious dressing.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This rest time allows the flavors to blend and makes the salad even tastier. Serve cold and enjoy!

The entire process takes about 15 minutes of active prep, plus chilling time. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll make once and memorize forever.

Storage Options

This salad stores beautifully, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep or leftovers. Just keep it covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

For best quality, consume within 3 to 4 days. The bacon may soften slightly over time, but the flavor will deepen as everything melds together.

If you want to make it ahead for an event, consider keeping the bacon separate and stirring it in just before serving. This trick helps maintain that fresh, crispy bite.

To reheat, well—you don’t need to! This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Just give it a stir and maybe a splash of vinegar or mayo if it seems a little dry.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted. Here are a few ways to put your own spin on this Classic Pea Salad With Bacon:

If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, try using Greek yogurt or sour cream instead. You’ll get a tangier flavor and a bit more protein—great for lighter versions.

Swap the bacon for turkey bacon or even crispy pancetta if you’re feeling fancy. You can also omit it entirely for a vegetarian twist—just add some toasted sunflower seeds for crunch.

Try adding hard-boiled eggs for a more filling salad. The creamy yolks blend beautifully into the dressing and make it feel more like a complete meal.

Mix in extra veggies if you like! Diced celery, bell pepper, or even shredded carrot can add more crunch and color to the mix.

Not into cheddar? Try pepper jack, Colby, or even crumbled feta for a unique flavor. The cheese world is your oyster here.

Don’t be afraid to experiment based on what you have in the fridge. That’s how the best versions of this recipe are born!

Print