Creamy, crunchy, and loaded with flavor—this Bacon Pea Salad is the ultimate side dish you didn’t know you needed!

• Prep Time: 12 minutes

• Cook Time (if bacon is raw): 10 minutes

• Chill Time (recommended): 30 minutes – 2 hours

• Total Time: 22 minutes (active) + chilling

Ingredients

*Yields: 6-8 servings as a side dish*

• 2 (10 oz) bags frozen sweet peas, thawed (do not cook them – see note below)

• 8 slices thick-cut bacon (or 1 cup real bacon bits)

• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, diced into small cubes (not shredded—cubes add texture)

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely minced

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat is best)

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (adds brightness)

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon salt (use less if bacon is very salty)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Intensity Note:

• Smoky/Meaty Intensity: High (bacon is the star)

• Creamy/Tangy Intensity: Medium (balanced by vinegar)

• Sweet Intensity: Low (just enough to contrast the bacon)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Bacon (Intensity: High Activity)

Active time: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

If you’re using pre-cooked bacon bits, skip to Step 2.

For raw bacon:

1. Line a baking sheet with foil and lay the 8 slices of bacon flat.

2. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes until deeply crispy. (Oven bacon is less messy and stays flatter than pan-fried).

3. Transfer bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool, crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces.

4. Pro tip: Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat for another use (like roasting vegetables) or discard it.

Step 2: Thaw the Peas (Intensity: Low Activity)

*Time: 5 minutes (hands-off)*

Place the frozen peas in a colander and run cool water over them for 1-2 minutes until thawed. Do not cook them. You want raw, sweet, snappy peas that hold their shape. Shake off excess water and pat dry with paper towels. Excess water will make your dressing runny.

Step 3: Make the Dressing (Intensity: Low Activity)

Active time: 2 minutes

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste a tiny dab. It should be tangy with a hint of sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad (Intensity: Medium Activity)

Active time: 5 minutes

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Thawed and dried peas

• Crumbled bacon (reserve 2 tablespoons for garnish)

• Diced cheddar cheese cubes

• Minced red onion

Pour the dressing over the top. Use a rubber spatula to fold everything together gently. You want the dressing to coat every pea, not drown them.

Step 5: Chill and Rest (Intensity: Zero Activity – The Wait)

Time: 30 minutes minimum (up to 24 hours)

This is the most important step for flavor intensity. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Overnight is even better. Chilling allows:

• The flavors to meld (bacon infuses the dressing).

• The red onion to mellow (it becomes sweet instead of sharp).

• The salad to firm up (it thickens beautifully).

Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved bacon and fresh parsley or chives on top for color and crunch.