Bacon Pea Salad Recipe

Peas: Thawed frozen peas add a sweet and fresh flavor to the salad.

Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon provides a crispy and savory element.

Red onion: Finely chopped red onion adds a sharp and tangy bite.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese gives a rich and creamy texture.

Mayonnaise: Acts as the base for the creamy dressing.

Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dressing.

Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the vinegar with a touch of sweetness.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the salad.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.

When preparing the bacon, cook it slowly over medium heat to render out the fat and achieve a perfectly crispy texture. This method ensures the bacon doesn't burn and maintains its flavor. Additionally, when combining the mayonnaise mixture with the pea salad, make sure to whisk the apple cider vinegar and sugar thoroughly to create a smooth and well-emulsified dressing. This will help coat the peas and other ingredients evenly, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the salad.

• thawed frozen peas - Substitute with fresh peas: Fresh peas can provide a crisper texture and a slightly sweeter flavor.

• cooked and crumbled bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option with less fat but still offers a similar smoky flavor.

• finely chopped red onion - Substitute with green onions: Green onions have a milder flavor and add a nice color contrast.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese adds a tangy flavor and a creamy texture.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative with a similar creamy consistency.

• apple cider vinegar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and a fresh citrus flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slight floral note.

• salt and pepper - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing saltiness.

• Ensure the bacon pea salad is thoroughly chilled before storing. This helps maintain its freshness and flavor.
• Transfer the salad to an airtight container. This prevents any unwanted odors from the refrigerator from seeping into your salad.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The bacon pea salad can be kept for up to 3 days. Beyond this, the peas may lose their crispness, and the bacon might become soggy.
• If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, consider keeping the bacon separate and mixing it in just before serving. This keeps the bacon crispy.
• For freezing, note that the texture of the peas and mayonnaise dressing may change upon thawing, which could affect the overall quality of the salad.
• If you still wish to freeze, place the salad in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date. The bacon pea salad can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Stir well before serving to reincorporate the dressing.
• For best results, add fresh bacon and a bit more mayonnaise after thawing to refresh the salad's texture and flavor.

• If you prefer a warm bacon pea salad, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the mayonnaise from separating.
• For a quick and easy method, microwave the salad in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the salad in an oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the salad in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.
• If you want to maintain the crispiness of the bacon, consider reheating it separately in a skillet or microwave, then mix it back into the salad just before serving.

• Skillet: Use this to cook the bacon until it is crispy.

• Paper towels: These are essential for draining the excess grease from the cooked bacon.

• Large mixing bowl: This is where you will combine the peas, crumbled bacon, red onion, and cheddar cheese.

• Small bowl: Use this to whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar.

• Whisk: This tool is important for thoroughly mixing the dressing ingredients.

• Measuring cups: These will help you measure out the peas, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.

• Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for finely chopping the red onion.

• Cutting board: Use this as a surface for chopping the red onion.

• Mixing spoon: This will help you toss the pea mixture with the dressing to ensure everything is well-coated.

• Refrigerator: Essential for chilling the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.

Cook bacon in advance: Prepare and cook the bacon ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Pre-chop onions: Finely chop the red onion in advance and store it in an airtight container.

Mix dressing ahead: Whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar and store in the refrigerator until needed.

Thaw peas quickly: Thaw frozen peas by placing them in a colander and running cold water over them for a few minutes.