Creamy Southern Pea Salad Recipe Perfect for Cookouts

Name: Creamy Southern Pea Salad Recipe Perfect for Cookouts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups frozen green peas, thawed and drained; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup celery, diced; 4 slices bacon, crispy and crumbled; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on November 15, 2025

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There’s something about a bowl of creamy Southern pea salad that just feels like summer. The crunch of fresh veggies, the tangy dressing, and that irresistible combination of textures—it’s a dish that instantly brings people together. I still remember the first time I tried this recipe at a family barbecue. It was nestled right next to the potato salad, and after one bite, I knew I had to recreate it. Years later, after many tweaks and tests, I’m sharing my perfect version of this classic cookout favorite.

This creamy Southern pea salad is a must-have for any gathering. It’s quick to whip up, packed with flavor, and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled burgers or fried chicken, it’s the kind of dish that people keep coming back for. Trust me, it’s a winner every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute party prep.
Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy grocery trips—everything is easy to find and budget-friendly.
Perfect for Cookouts: A refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with smoky BBQ flavors.
Kid-Friendly: The creamy dressing and sweet peas make this a hit with little ones.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of crunchy bacon, crisp veggies, and creamy dressing is pure magic.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The dressing is tangy yet slightly sweet, perfectly complementing the peas and other ingredients. It’s not just another pea salad—it’s the one people ask you to bring to every cookout. Honestly, it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, so make extra!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This creamy Southern pea salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these are pantry staples or easy-to-find items. Here’s what you’ll need:

Frozen green peas: Thawed and drained (the star of the show!)
Mayonnaise: For that creamy base (use full-fat for richness or a lighter version for fewer calories).
Sour cream: Adds a tangy kick to the dressing.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded (sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor).
Red onion: Finely chopped for a pop of color and flavor.
Celery: Diced for crunch.
Bacon: Crispy and crumbled (feel free to use turkey bacon for a lighter option).
Apple cider vinegar: A touch of acidity to balance the creaminess.
Sugar: Just a pinch to bring out the sweetness of the peas.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning.

If you’re out of an ingredient, don’t worry! You can easily adapt this recipe. For example, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or use vegan mayo and plant-based bacon to make it dairy-free.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy equipment to make this Southern pea salad. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing bowls: One large and one small for combining ingredients and preparing the dressing.
Cutting board: For chopping veggies and bacon.
Knife: A sharp knife for precise cuts.
Spatula or spoon: To mix everything together smoothly.
Colander: For draining the thawed peas.

If you don’t have a colander, a clean kitchen towel works just as well to drain the peas. Also, if you don’t have a large mixing bowl, you can use a deep serving dish—it saves you from having to transfer everything later!

How to Make Creamy Southern Pea Salad

Thaw the peas: Remove the frozen peas from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature. Once thawed, drain thoroughly using a colander or pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Prepare the bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces.
Chop the veggies: Finely dice the celery and red onion. Set aside.
Make the dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Combine the salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the thawed peas, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped celery, red onion, and crumbled bacon.
Add the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to mash the peas!
Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Garnish with additional bacon or cheese, if desired.

Pro tip: If your peas are still a little wet after thawing, they can dilute the dressing. Make sure they’re as dry as possible before mixing everything together!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Use cold peas: Make sure your peas are completely chilled before mixing the salad to keep it crisp and refreshing.
Don’t skip the chill time: The flavors need time to meld together, and the salad tastes much better after resting in the fridge.
Cut veggies uniformly: Even-sized pieces ensure you get a perfect bite every time.
Cook bacon evenly: Lay bacon strips flat in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat, flipping occasionally until crispy.
Don’t overmix: Toss the salad gently to avoid breaking the peas and making it mushy.

With these tips in mind, you’re guaranteed to have a creamy Southern pea salad that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious!

Variations & Adaptations

Low-carb version: Swap the sugar in the dressing with a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Vegan twist: Use vegan mayo and plant-based bacon, and replace cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the finished salad.
Seasonal swaps: Try adding diced bell peppers in the summer or toasted pecans in the fall for a seasonal flair.
Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken or cooked shrimp to turn this side dish into a hearty main course.

One of my favorite variations is swapping the cheddar cheese for pepper jack when I want a little extra heat. It pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing and crispy bacon!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This creamy Southern pea salad is best served chilled, straight from the fridge. It makes a beautiful addition to a potluck table or a backyard barbecue spread. Pair it with your favorite grilled meats, cornbread, or even a refreshing glass of iced tea for the ultimate Southern experience.

If you have leftovers (unlikely, but it happens), store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen over time, and it may taste even better on day two! To refresh it before serving, give it a quick stir and add a touch more mayonnaise if needed.

Reheating isn’t recommended for this dish—it’s meant to be enjoyed cold. If you’re making it ahead for a big event, prepare everything the night before and mix the dressing in just before serving to keep it extra fresh and crisp.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough idea of the nutritional value for this salad, depending on exact ingredient measurements and brands used:

Calories: Approximately 210 per serving
Protein: Around 6 grams, thanks to the peas and cheese
Fiber: Peas provide a good source of dietary fiber.
Healthy fats: Mayonnaise and sour cream add some satisfying fats.
Essential nutrients: Peas are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, while celery and red onion provide antioxidants.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted to suit vegetarian or vegan diets. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can easily adjust the sweetness in the dressing without compromising the flavor.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to serve at your next cookout or family gathering, this creamy Southern pea salad is the answer. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Plus, you can make it your own with a few simple variations that cater to any dietary need or flavor preference.

I love this recipe because it’s the epitome of comfort food: creamy, crunchy, and packed with nostalgic flavors. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of those lazy summer afternoons spent with family and friends.

Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how you customized this creamy Southern pea salad. Share it with your friends and pin it for later—this recipe is one you’ll want to keep handy for all your cookouts!

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas work beautifully in this recipe! Just blanch them quickly in boiling water, then let them cool completely before using.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and dressing the night before and mix them together right before serving for maximum freshness.

What if I don’t like bacon?

No problem! You can leave it out or substitute it with turkey bacon, plant-based bacon, or even chopped nuts for crunch.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just verify your specific ingredient brands to ensure they’re safe if you have gluten sensitivities.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, use low-fat cheddar cheese, and substitute turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lighter version.