The Best Pea Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pea salad is the ultimate combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors. The sweet peas contrast beautifully with the tender beef and the sharp cheddar, while the tangy dressing brings everything together. It's quick, easy to prepare, and can even be made ahead, making it an excellent choice for both busy weekdays and festive occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen peas (preferably petite peas)

• Sharp cheddar cheese (cubed or shredded)

• Red onion (finely diced)

• Beef (cooked and chopped into small pieces)

• Mayonnaise

• Sour cream

• Granulated sugar

• Apple cider vinegar

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Place the frozen peas in a colander to thaw slightly while you prepare the dressing.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.

3. Add the peas, beef, cheddar cheese, and red onion into a large mixing bowl.

4. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and gently fold everything together until well combined.

5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. For the best flavor, it can also be made up to 3 days in advance.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings. Preparation time is roughly 10 minutes, and chilling time is about 1 hour.

Variations

• Swap out cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or another favorite cheese.

• Add hard-boiled eggs for a classic English pea salad variation.

• For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise.

• Use ranch dressing instead of mayonnaise and sour cream for a different flavor profile.

• Experiment with different types of cooked meat, such as chicken or turkey, for variations.

Storage/Reheating

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• This salad is best served chilled and should not be frozen, as the dressing may separate and the peas become mushy.

FAQs

1. Do you need to cook the frozen peas?

No, frozen peas are already partially cooked and can be used directly in this salad.

2. Can you freeze pea salad?

Freezing pea salad is not recommended, as the dressing will likely separate and the peas will lose their texture.

3. How do you store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

4. Can you use canned peas?

While you can use canned peas, frozen peas maintain a brighter color and better flavor, making them the ideal choice for this salad.

5. Do you need to defrost the peas before using them?

Yes, allow the peas to thaw slightly in a colander or run them under cold water to speed up the process.

6. Can you make pea salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the salad up to 3 days in advance for the best results.

7. How do you make the dressing for the pea salad?

The dressing is a simple combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper whisked together until smooth.

8. Can you use shredded cheese instead of cubed cheese?

Yes, you can shred the cheddar cheese if you prefer, but cubed cheese gives the salad a different texture.

10. What other ingredients can you add to pea salad?

You can add diced celery, bell peppers, or even some chopped herbs like parsley for extra freshness.

Conclusion

This creamy pea salad is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your next gathering. Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a family dinner, or a holiday feast, this salad pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes. With its rich, creamy texture and savory ingredients, it's a salad that everyone will love!