Looking for that nostalgic, creamy, and crunchy salad your grandma used to make? Look no further. Old fashioned pea salad is a beloved classic that’s still showing up at potlucks, barbecues, and Sunday dinners—for good reason. It’s simple, satisfying, and seriously addictive.
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The Charm of Old-Fashioned Recipes
Sometimes the best dishes don’t require a fancy technique or a laundry list of ingredients. Vintage recipes like this one remind us that good food is often about comfort and simplicity. Pea salad fits that bill perfectly—humble ingredients, timeless flavor.
What Is Pea Salad?
Old-fashioned pea salad is a cold salad made primarily with green peas, cheddar cheese, onion, and a creamy mayo-based dressing. It’s crunchy, slightly sweet, and super satisfying. Think of it as the perfect retro side dish that belongs at any potluck or picnic.
Old Fashioned Pea Salad: Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this classic salad:
- 3 cups frozen sweet peas, thawed (or canned, well-drained)
- 1 cup shredded or cubed sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup crispy bacon bits (optional, but delicious)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Why This Salad Works
It’s all about the balance:
- Crunchy onion and bacon
- Creamy mayo-sour cream base
- Tender peas
- Savory cheddar to pull it all together
It’s rich without being heavy and makes any plate feel a bit more complete.
How to Make Old Fashioned Pea Salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Thaw the peas: If using frozen peas, place them in a colander under cool water until thawed. Drain well.
- Chop ingredients: Dice red onion finely. Cube or shred cheddar cheese.
- Mix dressing: In a large bowl, stir together mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
- Combine everything. Add peas, cheese, onions, and bacon to the dressing. Gently stir to coat.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Old Fashioned Pea Salad: Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Frozen vs. Canned Peas: Frozen peas are firmer and taste fresher. Canned peas work, but they are softer and sweeter.
- Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack for a kick or smoked gouda for a twist.
- Lighter Dressing: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or light mayo for fewer calories.
Optional Add-Ins to Try
Want to mix things up? Try adding:
- Chopped pickles or relish for tang
- Hard-boiled eggs for extra protein
- Celery for crunch
- Diced ham to make it more filling
Tips for the Best Pea Salad
- Don’t skip the chill time—it helps flavors meld
- Use sharp cheddar for that bold, cheesy flavor
- Dice everything evenly for the best texture and bite
How to Serve Pea Salad
This salad plays well with a wide range of mains. Try it with:
- Grilled meats
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Fried chicken
- Or even in a wrap or lettuce cup
It’s a staple side dish that complements just about everything.
Make-Ahead and Storage Info
- Make-ahead friendly: You can make this 1–2 days in advance.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Give it a stir before serving.
Nutrition Breakdown (Approximate per 1-cup serving)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 14g
- Fat: 17g
Want it healthier? Cut the mayo with Greek yogurt or use reduced-fat cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Takes under 15 minutes to throw together
- Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples
- Loved by both kids and adults
- A guaranteed BBQ crowd-pleaser
Conclusion
If you’re craving comfort and convenience, old-fashioned pea salad delivers every time. It’s the type of dish that never goes out of style—refreshingly cool, easy to customize, and always welcome at the table. Give it a try and see why this retro side is still a star.
FAQs
1. Can I make pea salad the night before?
Yes! In fact, it’s better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and stir before serving.
2. Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?
You can, but they’ll be softer. Make sure to drain them well.
3. Is pea salad served warm or cold?
Cold is best! It’s a refreshing contrast to warm dishes at a picnic or BBQ.
4. What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can use your favorite block cheese—just avoid pre-shredded for better texture.
5. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Just skip the bacon or sub with crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for crunch.