Description
Classic Southern Pea Salad
Add a spicy twist to this creamy Southern salad for a flavorful punch.
Ingredients:
2 cups frozen peas, thawed
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
6 slices jalapeño bacon, crumbled
½ cup pepper jack cheese, diced
¼ cup diced green onions
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tsp hot sauce
¼ tsp black pepper
Paprika for garnish
Preparation:
Mix peas, eggs, bacon, cheese, and onions in a large bowl.
Combine mayonnaise, hot sauce, and pepper for the dressing.
Toss dressing with the salad and chill for 30 minutes.
Sprinkle paprika before serving.
#SpicyPeaSalad
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Thaw frozen peas completely. Hard-boil two eggs, cool, peel, and chop. Cook 6 slices of jalapeño bacon until crisp, then crumble. Dice ½ cup of pepper jack cheese and ¼ cup of green onions.
2. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
3. Combine Salad: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the thawed peas, chopped eggs, crumbled bacon, diced cheese, and green onions.
4. Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Use a spatula to fold everything together until evenly coated.
5. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Lightly sprinkle paprika over the top for color just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Pea Salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standout side at summer barbecues alongside grilled chicken or burgers. It’s perfect for potlucks and picnics as it travels well. For a lighter meal, serve it over a bed of crisp lettuce or in a hollowed-out tomato. It also makes a fantastic, flavorful sandwich or wrap filling.
How-to Summary
Thaw peas and prepare hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon, cheese, and onions. Whisk mayo, hot sauce, and pepper for the dressing. Gently combine all salad ingredients, fold in the dressing, and chill for 30+ minutes. Garnish with paprika before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh or canned peas instead of frozen? Yes. Blanch fresh peas briefly. If using canned peas, drain and rinse them well to remove the salty brine.
How long will this salad keep in the fridge? Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 3 days. The bacon may soften slightly over time.
Can I make it less spicy? Absolutely. Use regular bacon and substitute mild cheddar for the pepper jack. You can also omit the hot sauce from the dressing.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise? For a lighter version, you can use full-fat Greek yogurt or a half mayo, half sour cream blend.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish. Prepare it up to a day in advance; the flavors improve as it chills.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using frozen peas without thawing them first, which waters down the dressing.
- Over-mixing the salad, which can crush the peas and make the texture mushy.
- Adding the bacon while it’s still warm, causing it to become soggy. Ensure it’s completely cool and crisp.
- Skipping the chilling time. This step is crucial for flavor development.
- Oversalting. The bacon, cheese, and hot sauce already add plenty of savory and salty notes.
Conclusion
This Spicy Southern Pea Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable side dish. The creamy, spicy dressing perfectly complements the sweet peas, smoky bacon, and rich eggs. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a perfectly textured and flavorful salad every time. It’s the ultimate easy-to-make recipe that delivers maximum taste for any occasion.
