Southern Pea Salad Recipe

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I grew up with Southern Pea Salad on nearly every holiday table, and it’s still one of my absolute favorite side dishes to this day. There’s something incredibly comforting about the creamy texture, the salty pops of bacon, the sharpness of cheddar, and the sweet, fresh burst from those green peas. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm Southern hug—familiar, easy to make, and always a hit whether it’s Easter brunch or a backyard BBQ.

What I love most about this recipe is how beautifully balanced it is. The peas aren’t just filler—they’re the star. Add in hard-boiled eggs, shredded cheddar, crispy bacon, and just the right amount of creamy dressing, and suddenly you’ve got a crave-worthy salad that’s both hearty and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it chilled on a hot summer day or bringing it to a potluck, this Southern Pea Salad never sticks around for long.

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Why You’ll Love This Southern Pea Salad Recipe

This isn’t just another salad. It’s a celebration of texture, flavor, and nostalgia all in one bowl. You’ll love how quick it is to prepare—no fancy ingredients or complicated steps. It’s budget-friendly, packed with protein, and super customizable. Plus, it holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it perfect for make-ahead meals, lunchboxes, or gatherings.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Southern cooking or trying this classic for the first time, this pea salad will win you over with its creamy, crunchy, savory goodness.

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What Kind of Peas Should I Use for Southern Pea Salad?

The best peas for Southern Pea Salad are frozen sweet green peas. They have a tender bite, retain their shape well, and bring that naturally sweet flavor that freshens up the whole dish. I always recommend letting them thaw completely and patting them dry to avoid excess moisture in the salad.

Canned peas can work in a pinch, but they tend to be a bit mushy and don’t offer the same vibrant texture. Fresh peas are an option if you can find them, but they’ll need to be quickly blanched and cooled before mixing in.

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Options for Substitutions

Southern Pea Salad is wonderfully flexible, and you can easily tweak it based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences:

• Mayonnaise Alternatives: Swap mayo with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier, lighter version.
• Cheese Options: If cheddar isn’t your thing, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or crumbled feta for a salty twist.
• No Bacon? Use turkey bacon, diced ham, or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian option.
• Egg-Free Version: Just skip the hard-boiled eggs if needed—the salad will still be rich and satisfying.
• Add-Ins: Want to bulk it up? Toss in diced celery, red onions, or chopped pickles for extra crunch and zest.

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Ingredients for This Southern Pea Salad Recipe

Each ingredient in this Southern classic has a job to do, and together, they create a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s what makes this salad so crave-worthy:

• Frozen Green Peas – These are the star of the show. Their sweet flavor and firm texture are essential to the dish. Let them thaw completely before using.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs – They add protein, creaminess, and that classic Southern touch. Chopped or sliced, they make every bite more satisfying.
• Cooked Bacon – Crispy, salty, and smoky, bacon brings depth and richness that balances the sweetness of the peas.
• Cheddar Cheese – Shredded sharp cheddar adds tang and richness. It melts slightly into the salad, making it ultra-creamy.
• Mayonnaise – The traditional creamy base that ties everything together. It coats the peas and gives that signature Southern salad texture.
• Green Onions – These give a mild bite and a pop of color. They balance out the richness with their fresh flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the salad just right. Taste and adjust before serving.
• Paprika (Optional) – A light sprinkle on top adds a hint of smokiness and beautiful color.

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Step 1: Thaw the Peas

Place the frozen green peas in a colander and let them sit at room temperature until fully thawed. Pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towels to remove any excess moisture—this keeps the salad from becoming watery.

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Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool, then crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces.

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Step 3: Boil and Peel the Eggs

Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then cover, remove from heat, and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Cool in ice water, peel, and chop or quarter as desired.

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Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise and season with salt and pepper. If you’re using paprika or other seasonings, whisk them in at this stage.

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Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Add the thawed peas, chopped eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.

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Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up slightly.

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How Long to Cook the Southern Pea Salad

This is more of a no-cook (or low-cook) recipe, but timing still matters:

• Peas – No cooking needed; just thaw fully (about 15–20 minutes at room temp).
• Bacon – Cooks in 8–10 minutes for that crispy finish.
• Eggs – Boil for 10–12 minutes, then cool and peel.
• Chilling Time – Let the assembled salad chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before serving.

From start to finish, you’re looking at about 45 minutes total, including prep and chill time.

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Tips for Perfect Southern Pea Salad

• Thaw Peas Properly – Don’t rush this step. Letting them thaw fully and patting them dry helps the dressing stick better and prevents sogginess.
• Use Quality Bacon – Thick-cut bacon adds more bite and richness, and doesn’t disappear into the salad.
• Fresh Eggs Make a Difference – Use freshly boiled eggs for the best texture and flavor. Pre-packaged boiled eggs tend to be rubbery.
• Grate Your Own Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that don’t mix as smoothly. Freshly grated melts into the salad better.
• Season Last – After everything is mixed and chilled, taste and adjust with salt and pepper. The flavor deepens as it sits.
• Serve Chilled – This salad is best when cold and crisp, so give it time in the fridge to come together before plating.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though Southern Pea Salad is a simple, classic dish, a few small missteps can throw off the texture or flavor. Here’s what to avoid:

• Using Wet Peas – If your peas aren’t fully thawed and dried, the dressing will slide right off and make the salad watery.
• Overcooking the Bacon – Too crispy and it’ll crumble into dust; too chewy and it’ll feel greasy. Aim for golden and crispy.
• Skipping the Chill Time – The flavors need time to mingle. Serving it too soon can result in a bland or uneven taste.
• Going Heavy on the Mayo – More isn’t always better. Too much dressing can overwhelm the peas and make everything feel gloopy.
• Underseasoning – Peas are naturally sweet, so a pinch of salt and pepper goes a long way. Don’t forget to taste before serving.
• Using Canned Peas Without Draining Well – If you must use canned, drain and rinse them very well, then pat them dry.

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What to Serve With Southern Pea Salad?

This salad is incredibly versatile, pairing well with everything from grilled meats to Southern comfort classics. Here are some winning ideas:

Fried Chicken

The creamy salad is the perfect cool contrast to crunchy, hot fried chicken—Southern heaven on a plate.

BBQ Ribs

The sweetness of the peas and creaminess of the salad balance beautifully with smoky, tangy barbecue.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Spoon some right onto the sandwich or serve it on the side—either way, it works like magic.

Fried Catfish

That flaky fish and a scoop of pea salad? A match made in Dixie.

Deviled Eggs

Double up on the egg goodness with deviled eggs as a fun finger food on the side.

Cornbread

Warm, buttery cornbread is ideal for soaking up every creamy bite of this salad.

Burgers or Sliders

Serve this salad instead of the usual coleslaw—it’s creamy, cold, and totally unexpected (in the best way).

Grilled Chicken or Turkey

If you’re going light on the main dish, this salad adds creamy, hearty balance without being too heavy.

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Storage Instructions

Southern Pea Salad stores like a dream, making it a great make-ahead dish for parties, lunches, or just snacking straight from the fridge.

• Refrigerator – Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
• Make-Ahead Tip – You can prep all the components (boil the eggs, cook the bacon, shred the cheese) a day in advance. Just mix everything shortly before serving or the night before.
• Avoid Freezing – This dish does not freeze well. The creamy dressing tends to separate, and the texture of the peas becomes mushy when thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general estimate per serving (based on about 1 cup of salad), but it may vary depending on the ingredients and portion size:

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 5g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 410mg

This dish is a solid source of protein and fiber, thanks to the peas, eggs, and bacon, making it not only delicious but filling too.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to thaw frozen peas for this salad?

Let them sit at room temperature in a colander for 15–20 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them mushy.

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Can I make Southern Pea Salad a day ahead?

Absolutely! It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have time to meld. Just keep it chilled in an airtight container.

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Is this salad served cold or warm?

Southern Pea Salad should always be served cold. The cool temperature keeps the peas crisp and the dressing creamy.

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Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?

Yes, but only as a last resort. Canned peas are softer and more prone to breaking apart. Be sure to drain and rinse them well.

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What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a blend of both can be used to lighten up the dish without sacrificing creaminess.

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How do I keep the bacon crispy in the salad?

Add the bacon just before serving. This keeps it from soaking up the dressing and losing its crunch.

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Is Southern Pea Salad gluten-free?

Yes—if all your ingredients (especially bacon and mayo) are gluten-free, then the dish naturally is too.

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Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Diced celery, bell peppers, or even pickles can add crunch and flavor. Just don’t overload it—peas should still be the star.

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Conclusion

Southern Pea Salad is the kind of recipe that brings comfort, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia to any table. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re whipping it up for a summer BBQ, holiday meal, or just because you’re craving something creamy and crunchy, this dish never disappoints.

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