Sweet Pea and Bacon Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, bringing together the crisp freshness of peas, the smoky richness of bacon, and the sweet and tangy touch of golden raisins and wine vinegar dressing. This dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish for your favorite meals.
This salad’s versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser. The creamy dressing ties all the ingredients together, enhancing the contrast between the crunch of sunflower seeds and the tenderness of sweet peas. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Flavorful Balance: The smoky bacon, sweet raisins, and creamy dressing create a perfect harmony.
• Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare with minimal effort, yet packed with flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A unique and refreshing salad that stands out at gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
• 2 (6-ounce) packages frozen peas, thawed
• 1 pound cooked bacon, chopped
• 1 cup golden raisins
• 1 (8-ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 sweet onion, chopped
• ½ cup sunflower seeds
For the Dressing:
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons wine vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon white sugar, or to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salad
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, chopped bacon, golden raisins, shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped sweet onion, and sunflower seeds.
2. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, wine vinegar, and white sugar.
2. Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is smooth and creamy. Adjust sugar to taste if needed.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
1. Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl.
2. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
Step 4: Chill the Salad
1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. This allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
1. Before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing.
2. Serve chilled as a side dish or a light main course.
Tips
• Fresh Peas Option: Substitute frozen peas with fresh ones if available for an even brighter flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Use a sharp Cheddar for more pronounced flavor or mix in Colby Jack for a milder taste.
• Customize Add-Ins: Try adding diced bell peppers, chopped celery, or sliced almonds for extra crunch.
• Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it an excellent choice for parties.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Toss before serving again.
• Not Freezer-Friendly: The creamy dressing and fresh ingredients don’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Sweet Pea and Bacon Salad is a standout dish that combines savory, sweet, and tangy elements in a creamy, refreshing way. It’s sure to become a favorite addition to your salad repertoire!
