What Are Old Fashioned Sweet Peas?

Old-fashioned sweet peas refer to a variety of garden peas known for their mild sweetness and vibrant green color. In this recipe, we use frozen peas , which retain their natural sweetness and require no cooking.

How Do You Thaw Frozen Peas for Salad?

The best method is to let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes . You can also rinse them under cool water in a strainer and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Can You Make Pea Salad Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better when made a few hours in advance . Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days . If you're looking for another light and refreshing meal, try this delicious Chickpea Salad Wrap that's packed with flavor.

How Many Carbs Are in Pea Salad?

The carbohydrate content varies depending on ingredients, but a serving typically contains 10–15g of carbs . For a low-carb pea salad , reduce or omit the sweet peas and use extra protein-rich ingredients like eggs and bacon .

Can I Make This Salad Without Mayo?

Yes! If you prefer a mayo-free version, substitute it with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a mix of both . You can also use ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.

Old Fashioned Pea Salad – Classic & Creamy

Description

A creamy, nostalgic side dish featuring sweet peas, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese in a tangy, flavorful dressing. This Old Fashioned Pea Salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a comforting holiday table.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups frozen peas, thawed
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup diced red onion
¼ cup bacon bits
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Thaw the Peas: Allow frozen peas to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, or rinse them under cool water and drain well.
Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add thawed peas, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and bacon bits.
Mix & Coat: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently fold everything together until well coated.
Chill Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Garnish & Serve: Before serving, sprinkle fresh dill or parsley for a fresh, herby finish.

Notes

For a healthier version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Add crunch by incorporating chopped celery or sunflower seeds.
For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add toasted almonds.

Prep Time: 10
Chilling Time: 30
Category: Side Dish
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: ~220 kcal
Sugar: ~3g
Sodium: ~350mg
Fat: ~18g
Saturated Fat: ~5g
Unsaturated Fat: ~10g
Carbohydrates: ~8g
Fiber: ~2g
Protein: ~7g
Cholesterol: ~90mg

Keywords: Old Fashioned Pea Salad, Creamy Pea Salad, Southern Pea Salad, Picnic Side Dish, Cold Salad Recipes, Easy Pea Salad Recipe, Traditional Pea Salad