Classic Southern Pea Salad

This classic Southern Pea Salad brings together creamy textures and savory flavors in a dish that's been gracing potlucks and family gatherings across the South for generations. Its perfect balance of sweet peas, sharp cheese, and smoky bacon creates a side dish that complements practically any main course.

I first brought this pea salad to a neighborhood block party where it disappeared faster than any other dish. Now my neighbors specifically request I bring "my famous pea salad" to every gathering, not realizing how incredibly simple it is to prepare.

Ingredients

• Frozen sweet peas thawed or canned peas bring natural sweetness and are the foundation of the salad
• Hard boiled eggs add richness and protein making this more substantial
• Crispy bacon contributes a smoky crunch that elevates the entire dish
• Green onions provide a mild onion flavor without overpowering the delicate peas
• Shredded cheddar cheese adds sharp flavor and beautiful color contrast
• Seasonings like black pepper garlic powder and celery seeds create depth of flavor
• Mayonnaise and sour cream blend together for the perfect creamy dressing base

How To Make Southern Pea Salad Classic

Combine the vegetables and proteins

In a large mixing bowl add the thawed sweet peas chopped eggs crumbled bacon chopped onions and shredded cheddar. Make sure your peas are fully thawed and drained to prevent watery salad. I like to pat them gently with paper towels before adding.

Season the mixture

Sprinkle all the seasonings directly onto the vegetable mixture. The black pepper salt garlic powder celery seeds and cayenne should be distributed evenly throughout. This ensures every bite has balanced flavor instead of pockets of seasoning.

Create the dressing

In a separate bowl whisk the mayonnaise and sour cream until completely smooth and unified. This extra step prevents lumpy dressing and ensures consistent creaminess. The tanginess of sour cream balances the richness of mayonnaise perfectly.

Combine and chill

Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and fold gently using a spatula until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the peas during mixing. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour but preferably three to four hours for the best flavor development.

The celery seeds might seem like a minor ingredient but they provide that distinctive Southern flavor that makes this salad authentic. My grandmother always kept a jar specifically for her pea salad and insisted it was her secret ingredient though she happily shared the recipe with anyone who asked.

Make It Your Own

This classic recipe welcomes personalization based on your preferences. Some family recipes add diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color. Others swap the cheddar for pepper jack to add a spicy kick. The beauty of Southern pea salad is how adaptable it is while still maintaining its comforting essence.

Storage Suggestions

This salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. The flavors actually continue developing during storage making it taste even better on day two. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. I do not recommend freezing as the texture of the mayonnaise will separate upon thawing.

Perfect Pairings

Southern Pea Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats fried chicken or ham. During summer months I serve it alongside barbecued ribs and cornbread for a complete Southern meal. For holiday gatherings it adds a pop of color and freshness to balance heavier traditional dishes. The creamy texture complements anything with a bit of spice or smoke.

Southern Origins

This dish reflects the practical resourcefulness of Southern cooking traditions. Using preserved ingredients like frozen peas and shelf stable items allowed families to enjoy vegetables year round before modern refrigeration. Many Southern cooks would prepare this with leftover Easter ham creating a practical and delicious way to stretch ingredients while ensuring nothing went to waste.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas work wonderfully! If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until just tender, then immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain well before adding to the salad. This maintains their bright color and pleasant texture.

→ How long does Southern pea salad keep in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, this pea salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually continue to develop after the first day, making it a great make-ahead dish. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.

→ Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or ham to make it vegetarian. You can add extra texture and flavor with chopped bell peppers, water chestnuts, or a tablespoon of chopped dill pickles to compensate for the savory notes that bacon provides.

→ What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for mayonnaise in this salad. You can use it to replace all or part of the mayo for a tangier, lighter version. Another option is to use an avocado-based mayonnaise or a vegan mayo if you prefer.

→ What dishes pair well with Southern pea salad?

This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fried chicken, burgers, or sandwiches. It's perfect for barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. For a complete Southern meal, serve it alongside baked ham, cornbread, collard greens, or mac and cheese.

→ Can this salad be frozen?

Freezing isn't recommended for this salad as the mayonnaise and sour cream dressing will separate when thawed, resulting in a watery texture. The vegetables will also lose their pleasant crunch. It's best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.