• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 4 cups frozen green peas, thawed
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped

For the Creamy Dressing

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Place the bacon slices in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

Cooking Intensity

• Heat Level: Medium heat
• Texture Goal: Crispy but not burned
• Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes

Transfer the bacon onto paper towels to remove excess grease. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.

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Step 2: Prepare the Peas

If using frozen peas, allow them to thaw completely before mixing. You can rinse them under cool water for faster thawing.

Make sure the peas are drained properly to prevent excess water from thinning the dressing.

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Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

Dice the red onion and celery into small pieces. Smaller cuts distribute the flavor more evenly throughout the salad.

Shred or cube the cheddar cheese depending on your preferred texture.

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Apple cider vinegar
• Sugar
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Dressing Texture

• Thick and creamy
• Smooth consistency
• Slightly tangy flavor

The dressing should fully coat the salad ingredients without becoming too runny.

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Step 5: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add:

• Thawed peas
• Crumbled bacon
• Cheddar cheese
• Red onion
• Celery

Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

Avoid overmixing to keep the peas intact.

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Step 6: Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Chilling Intensity

• Temperature: Cold refrigeration
• Chill Time: 30 minutes minimum
• Purpose: Enhances flavor and texture

The chilling process allows the dressing to blend beautifully with the salad ingredients.

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Tips for the Best Creamy Bacon Pea Salad

Use Crispy Bacon

Crispy bacon adds the perfect crunchy texture. Soft bacon can become chewy after refrigeration.

Dry the Peas Well

Excess water can make the dressing watery. Pat the peas dry if necessary.

Chill Before Serving

Cold pea salad tastes fresher and more flavorful after resting in the refrigerator.

Freshly Shredded Cheese

Fresh cheese melts slightly into the dressing and provides better flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.

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Flavor Variations

This recipe is highly customizable. Here are some tasty ideas:

Add Eggs

Chopped hard-boiled eggs create extra richness and protein.

Add Ranch Flavor

Mix in a tablespoon of ranch seasoning for a bold twist.

Make It Spicy

Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

Add Crunch

Sunflower seeds or chopped almonds add extra texture.

Healthier Option

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or part of the mayonnaise.

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What to Serve with Creamy Bacon Pea Salad

This salad pairs perfectly with many dishes, including:

• Grilled chicken
• BBQ ribs
• Burgers
• Fried chicken
• Sandwiches
• Roasted vegetables
• Steak dinners

It is especially popular during summer cookouts and holiday meals.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftover Creamy Bacon Pea Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• Refrigerator Storage: Up to 3 days
• Freezer: Not recommended

The salad is best enjoyed fresh because the dressing may separate after long storage.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Bacon

Burned bacon creates a bitter taste. Cook just until crispy.

Using Warm Ingredients

Warm bacon or peas can cause the dressing to become oily or watery.

Skipping Chill Time

Chilling helps develop the full flavor of the salad.

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Why This Recipe Works

The sweetness of peas balances the salty bacon while the creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully. The red onion adds freshness, and cheddar cheese provides richness that complements every bite.

This balance of textures and flavors is what makes Creamy Bacon Pea Salad such a timeless classic.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)