There’s something about a fresh, crunchy salad that’s perfect for just about any occasion. Whether it’s a family BBQ, a potluck, or a casual weeknight dinner, this Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon is the dish that always steals the show. With its creamy, tangy dressing, tender peas, crispy turkey bacon, and crunchy vegetables, it offers a combination of textures and flavors that are simply irresistible.
But, here’s the thing: it’s not just about the flavors. This pea salad has a touch of nostalgia, a bit of comfort, and a whole lot of versatility. Growing up, my family made variations of this salad all the time for summer gatherings, and it’s become a go-to recipe in my own kitchen now. The smoky turkey bacon adds that savory touch we all crave, while the tangy dressing pulls everything together in the best way possible.
What I love most about this salad is how easy it is to make. You don’t need a ton of ingredients or special kitchen tools—just a few simple, fresh items that blend together to create something totally irresistible. Plus, it’s one of those salads that actually gets better as it sits, making it the perfect make-ahead dish for busy days when you want to have something delicious ready to go.
Ready to give this crowd-pleasing salad a try? Let’s jump into the ingredients and the steps to make it!
Ingredients:
4 cups frozen peas (thawed)
6 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Steps to Make Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon:
Step 1: Thaw and Prepare the Peas
Start by thawing your frozen peas. You can do this by letting them sit at room temperature for a few minutes, or if you’re in a bit of a rush, you can run them under cool water for a quick thaw. Once thawed, be sure to drain them thoroughly. You don’t want any excess water in the salad, as it can affect the creaminess of the dressing.
Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Turkey Bacon
While the peas are thawing, cook your turkey bacon. You can do this in a skillet or in the oven, depending on your preference. I love using thick-cut turkey bacon for this recipe because it crisps up beautifully and adds a satisfying crunch to the salad. Once cooked, crumble the turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.
Step 3: Chop the Veggies and Cheese
Next, chop your red onion into fine pieces and cube or shred the sharp cheddar cheese. The sharpness of the cheddar adds a great contrast to the creamy dressing and the smokiness of the turkey bacon. I prefer using a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, but if you’re not a fan of strong cheeses, you can always use a mild cheddar or even mozzarella for a more subtle taste.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. This creamy, tangy dressing is what really ties the whole salad together. The mayo gives it a rich creaminess, while the vinegar and mustard bring in a lovely tang. The honey adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance everything out. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
Now it’s time to bring it all together! In a large bowl, add the thawed peas, crumbled turkey bacon, chopped red onion, and sharp cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. You want the dressing to be well distributed, so take your time here.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
To finish, garnish with some fresh parsley if you like a pop of color and a bit of freshness. You can serve the salad immediately, or, for the best flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more cohesive taste. Either way, this salad is absolutely delicious!
This Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon is perfect as a side dish, a potluck contribution, or even as a light meal on its own. The combination of creamy, crunchy, smoky, and tangy flavors makes it a true crowd-pleaser every time.
Customizing Your Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon
Now that you’ve got the basic recipe down, let’s dive into some tips and ideas for customizing this Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon to suit your taste and make it even more special. This salad is incredibly versatile, and there are a lot of ways to make it your own by adding or substituting ingredients.
Adjusting the Ingredients:
One of the things I love about this pea salad is how adaptable it is. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, flavor likes, or what you have on hand in the fridge. For instance:
For a lighter version: If you’re looking to cut down on calories or fat, you can swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt, which will give you a similar creamy texture but with a lighter taste. Similarly, using reduced-fat mayonnaise is an easy swap to make this salad a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Extra crunch: If you love a bit of added crunch in your salads, consider adding chopped celery, bell peppers, or even some sliced almonds. These ingredients will complement the creamy dressing while giving you an extra layer of texture.
Herbs for flavor: Fresh herbs like dill, basil, or chives can really elevate the salad and add freshness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley is great, but a handful of finely chopped dill adds a pop of flavor that pairs well with the peas.
Cheese alternatives: While sharp cheddar is my go-to for its boldness, you can switch it up depending on what you prefer. If you’re more into a creamy, mild flavor, mozzarella or even cream cheese could work. Or, for a tangier kick, try crumbled feta.
Steps to Make Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon (Continued):
Step 7: Chilling for Maximum Flavor
After you’ve tossed everything together, consider letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. I know, it’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting it sit for a bit allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The peas soak up some of that creamy dressing, and the turkey bacon gets a little softer, making every bite even more delicious.
Step 8: Garnish with Fresh Herbs
Although parsley is optional, adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil can give your pea salad that extra fresh touch. Not only does it look great, but the herbs also bring a burst of flavor that enhances the overall experience. You can even experiment with different garnishes like a sprinkle of paprika or freshly grated parmesan for a bit of added complexity.
Additional Variations to Try:
Hard-Boiled Eggs: If you want to add some extra protein and make the salad heartier, adding chopped hard-boiled eggs is a great option. They’re a classic addition to many pea salads, and their creamy texture blends nicely with the dressing.
Swap the Turkey Bacon for Regular Bacon: If you’re not concerned about calories and want to go for a more traditional flavor, regular bacon is a great alternative to turkey bacon. It brings a stronger smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing.
Crispy Onions: If you love a little crunch and savory flavor, adding crispy fried onions (like the kind you find on green bean casseroles) can really take this salad to the next level. Their crispy, oniony flavor adds a nice contrast to the smoothness of the dressing and peas.
Making It Ahead of Time:
This pea salad is one of those dishes that gets better as it sits, so it’s an ideal make-ahead recipe. I recommend making it a few hours before serving or even the night before. Just make sure to cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. The flavors have time to develop and intensify, making it even more delicious when it’s time to serve.
And don’t worry about leftovers—this salad holds up well for a day or two in the fridge, though it’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for the freshest taste.
Serving Suggestions:
This Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It pairs beautifully with just about any meal, but here are a few ideas for serving it up:
With Grilled Meats: Whether it’s grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs, this salad makes the perfect side dish to complement smoky, savory flavors.
At Picnics or Potlucks: If you’re planning a gathering, this salad will definitely be a hit. It’s easy to transport and holds up well even if it’s not served immediately.
As a Light Lunch: Sometimes, I’ll have this salad on its own as a light lunch, especially when I want something creamy but not too heavy. It’s filling enough to stand on its own or paired with a slice of crusty bread.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Salad:
Don’t Overcook the Bacon: The turkey bacon should be crispy but not overly hard. Overcooking it will make it more crumbly and less flavorful, so keep an eye on it as it cooks.
Taste as You Go: Be sure to taste your salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes, a little extra salt or a dash of vinegar can elevate the flavors.
Make It Colorful: If you want to add more color to the salad, feel free to mix in some red bell peppers or even cherry tomatoes. Not only will it make the salad pop visually, but it’ll add an extra layer of flavor that’s fresh and vibrant.
Now that you know all the ways to customize and elevate this dish, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen! Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with some fun variations, this Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon is bound to become a family favorite.
FAQ and Final Thoughts on Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon
By now, you’ve got the recipe and tips for making this delicious Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon, and hopefully, you’re feeling inspired to give it a try! Before we wrap things up, let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions about this dish. I know that sometimes a few extra tips and tricks can make all the difference, so here’s what you might be wondering.
FAQ:
1. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
While frozen peas work best for this recipe because they are quick and easy to thaw, you can absolutely use fresh peas if you have them on hand. However, you’ll need to blanch them first. Simply boil them in water for about 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process. Once they’re cooled, you can proceed with the recipe as usual.
2. How long can I store this pea salad in the refrigerator?
This pea salad is best enjoyed within the first 24 hours of making it for the freshest taste. However, it will keep for up to 2 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more the dressing will soften the vegetables, so it’s a matter of personal preference when it comes to texture.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad is actually perfect for making ahead. In fact, the flavors only get better as they have time to meld together in the fridge. I recommend making it about 1-2 hours before serving, but you can make it up to a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, give it a good stir and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
4. Can I substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon?
Yes, you can definitely swap turkey bacon for regular bacon if you prefer. Keep in mind that regular bacon has a stronger, smokier flavor and will add a bit more fat and crunch. Just be sure to cook it crispy, crumble it up, and follow the same instructions. You’ll still get that delicious bacon flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.
5. How can I make this salad vegetarian?
To make this pea salad vegetarian, you can simply omit the turkey bacon (or any type of bacon) and add a bit of extra flavor elsewhere. Consider adding roasted chickpeas for some crunch and protein, or throw in some fresh herbs, like basil or dill, to boost the flavor profile. The creamy dressing and peas still shine on their own, even without the bacon.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is my go-to for this recipe, you can easily swap it out with another cheese. Mozzarella, Gouda, or even crumbled feta would work beautifully. Just make sure the cheese you choose complements the creamy dressing and the bacon for the best results.
7. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! This pea salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Be sure to double-check your labels if you have gluten sensitivities. Otherwise, this salad is a safe and delicious choice for anyone avoiding gluten.
Conclusion:
This Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon is a fantastic dish to add to your meal rotation. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a perfect side dish for your next BBQ, a potluck contribution, or just a tasty and refreshing salad to enjoy on its own, this recipe has you covered.
The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility. You can tweak it based on your preferences, add extra ingredients for more flavor, or keep it simple with the core ingredients. No matter how you prepare it, this dish is sure to be a hit every time.
I hope you give this pea salad a try and fall in love with it just like I did. Don’t forget to share your own tweaks and variations in the comments—I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own. And remember, the best part of any recipe is making it your own, so feel free to get creative and make this salad work for you.
Enjoy!
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Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon
Description
This Pea Salad with Turkey Bacon is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender peas, crispy turkey bacon, and crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a delicious, tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side to any meal, this salad offers a perfect balance of texture and taste. The turkey bacon adds a savory, smoky element, while the creamy dressing ties it all together for a refreshing and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
4 cups frozen peas (thawed)
6 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Thaw the frozen peas by letting them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or by running them under cool water. Drain thoroughly.
In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, crumbled turkey bacon, chopped red onion, and sharp cheddar cheese.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. Alternatively, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream or use reduced-fat mayonnaise. If you prefer a bit of crunch, add in some chopped celery or bell peppers. This salad is also versatile—feel free to experiment with adding other ingredients like hard-boiled eggs or fresh herbs for extra flavor. It’s best enjoyed within a few hours of making, though it can be refrigerated for up to a day.
