Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe – Creamy & Delicious Side Dish

When it comes to comfort food and classic Southern dishes, pea salad stands out as a must-try. This Classic Southern Pea Salad recipe is the epitome of creamy deliciousness, packed with fresh ingredients, a tangy dressing, and that delightful crunch that makes it the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a family barbecue, a picnic, or even a holiday gathering, this side dish is sure to become a favorite.

In this article, we’ll delve deep into:

• The history and origins of the classic Southern pea salad
• Why this recipe is so popular in the South
• How to make the perfect Southern pea salad every time
• Variations of the recipe to suit all preferences
• Health benefits and tips for creating a nutritious version
• How to store and serve this salad for the best experience

And much more! Let’s get started by learning how to make this beloved dish.

The History of Southern Pea Salad

The Southern United States is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes. Southern pea salad falls right into that category. Typically made with fresh or frozen peas, this dish first became popular in the mid-20th century as a light and refreshing side dish to accompany heavier meals. Pea salad was often served at community gatherings, holiday feasts, and Sunday dinners, making it a staple of Southern cuisine.

The beauty of Southern pea salad lies in its simplicity. It’s a dish that brings together flavors that complement each other perfectly—cheddar cheese, ham, and peas—with a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether it’s served as a side dish at a family dinner or as a centerpiece at a picnic, this salad has become synonymous with Southern hospitality.

Ingredients for Classic Southern Pea Salad

Now, let’s talk about the ingredients that make this salad such a hit:

• 3 cups frozen sweet peas (thawed): The peas form the base of the salad. Using frozen peas makes the process quicker, and they retain their flavor and texture, ensuring the dish is flavorful.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: This brings a rich, creamy texture and a mild, nutty flavor that complements the peas.
• ½ cup diced ham (or crispy bacon bits): Adds a savory, meaty element to the dish, making it heartier and more filling. The ham or bacon also provides a touch of saltiness, which is perfect for balancing the creaminess of the dressing.
• ¼ cup diced red onion: This adds a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese and mayo.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: A classic base for any creamy salad, mayonnaise helps bind the ingredients together and adds a velvety texture.
• 1 tbsp sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess): For those who enjoy an extra level of richness, the sour cream adds a tangy layer that complements the dressing.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: This helps enhance the flavor of the dressing by adding a bit of tang and depth.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Provides acidity to balance the creaminess of the mayo and sour cream. The vinegar adds a touch of sharpness, brightening the flavors.
• ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring the whole salad together and enhance the flavor profile.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (or dill, for extra flavor): The fresh herbs add brightness and freshness to the dish, creating a nice contrast to the creamy texture of the salad.

How to Make Classic Southern Pea Salad

Making Classic Southern Pea Salad is simple and requires just a few steps. Here’s how you can make this delightful side dish at home:

Step 1: Prepare the Peas

Start by rinsing the frozen peas under cold water to remove any ice crystals. Afterward, let them drain thoroughly, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is important because excess water can dilute the creamy dressing.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, shredded cheddar cheese, diced ham (or crispy bacon bits), and diced red onion. Stir everything together until it’s evenly distributed.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you like your dressing tangier, you can add a bit more mustard or vinegar.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the peas time to absorb the creamy dressing.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish the salad with fresh parsley or dill. This adds a touch of color and extra flavor, enhancing both the appearance and taste of the dish. Serve chilled as a side dish at your next BBQ, picnic, or holiday meal.

Why Southern Pea Salad is a Favorite in Southern Cuisine

Southern pea salad is an enduring classic for a reason: it’s easy to make, super versatile, and pairs perfectly with a wide variety of dishes. Here are a few reasons why it’s such a beloved dish in Southern kitchens:

1. Simplicity: The ingredients are easy to find, and the preparation process is quick. There’s no need to complicate things—just mix and chill, and you’re good to go.
2. Creamy Texture: The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and mustard creates a luscious, creamy dressing that coats the peas and other ingredients perfectly, making every bite satisfying.
3. Versatility: While the traditional recipe includes ham or bacon, you can make this salad with various additions like hard-boiled eggs, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top. You can adjust the seasonings based on personal taste and dietary restrictions, making this salad perfect for anyone.
4. Ideal for Large Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a picnic, or a holiday meal, this dish can easily be scaled up to serve a crowd. It’s a dish that can sit out at room temperature and still taste fantastic.
5. Comfort Food: There’s something incredibly comforting about a chilled, creamy salad loaded with fresh vegetables and savory add-ins. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home.

Health Benefits of Southern Pea Salad

While Southern pea salad is undeniably a treat for the taste buds, it also offers some health benefits—especially when you use fresh ingredients and enjoy it in moderation. Here’s why you might want to add this dish to your next meal:

• Peas are packed with fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. They also contain protein, making this dish a good option for those who are looking to balance their diet.
• Cheddar cheese provides calcium and protein, both of which are essential for maintaining strong bones and muscle function.
• Ham or bacon offers a source of protein and flavor, though you can make this recipe even healthier by using leaner cuts of meat or substituting with a vegetarian option like roasted chickpeas or tofu.
• The fresh parsley provides a burst of vitamin C and antioxidants, helping to support immune function.

Storing and Serving Classic Southern Pea Salad

If you’re making Southern pea salad in advance, you’re in luck—it stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Here are a few tips for keeping it fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, and the salad will still be just as creamy and delicious.
• Serving Suggestions: Southern pea salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats, BBQ chicken, or as part of a spread at your next picnic or potluck.

FAQs About Southern Pea Salad

Q1: Can I make Southern pea salad ahead of time?

Yes! Southern pea salad can be made up to 2 days in advance. In fact, letting it chill for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld even better. Just be sure to cover the bowl tightly to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without mayonnaise?

If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can try using Greek yogurt or a combination of sour cream and Dijon mustard for the dressing. This will still give you a creamy, tangy base.

Q3: How can I make Southern pea salad spicier?

To add some heat to your salad, you can increase the amount of Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar in the dressing, or toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Q4: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas?

While fresh peas would work, frozen peas are often more tender and convenient, especially in the off-season. However, fresh peas can be blanched and used if you prefer them.

Conclusion

There you have it—your complete guide to making Classic Southern Pea Salad. This dish is the ultimate creamy, flavorful side that is easy to prepare, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, a holiday dinner, or just as a side for your weeknight meal, this salad will be the perfect addition to your table.

So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this Southern classic! It’s a dish that brings people together, with each bite offering comfort, flavor, and a little taste of the South.

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