Description
Creamy Pea and Egg Salad with Bacon
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
3 hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
1/2 cup crispy bacon (crumbled)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and let cool. If using frozen peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and cool. In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add cooked macaroni, peas, chopped eggs, and crumbled bacon. Gently toss until well coated. Garnish with parsley and extra black pepper. Serve chilled.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect salad every time. First, cook the elbow macaroni in well-salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it quickly. For the peas, if using frozen, blanch them in boiling water for exactly two minutes before shocking in an ice bath to lock in their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture. Hard-boil your eggs by placing them in a pot, covering with cold water, bringing to a boil, then covering and removing from heat for 10-12 minutes before cooling in ice water. Cook bacon in a skillet until very crispy, then drain on paper towels before crumbling. In your final mixing bowl, always combine the wet ingredients—mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon, and seasonings—first to create a uniform dressing before adding the macaroni, peas, eggs, and bacon.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in multiple settings. For a hearty lunch, serve it on a bed of crisp butter lettuce or stuffed into a large tomato. It makes an excellent side dish at barbecues alongside grilled chicken or burgers. For a party, present it in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a stunning centerpiece. You can also use it as a flavorful filling for wraps or pita pockets, adding a layer of fresh spinach for extra crunch.
How-to Summary
In short: cook and cool the macaroni and peas. Hard-boil and chop the eggs. Cook and crumble the bacon. Whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, and seasonings together in a large bowl. Add all prepped ingredients to the bowl and toss gently to coat. Chill before serving, garnished with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully. Add a little extra mayo or sour cream before serving if it seems dry.
What can I use instead of sour cream? Plain Greek yogurt is a perfect 1:1 substitute, adding a similar tang and creaminess. You could also use all mayonnaise, though the flavor will be richer.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Small shells, rotini, or ditalini are great alternatives that hold the dressing well. Avoid long, thin pasta like spaghetti.
How long will leftovers keep? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the bacon may lose some crispness but will still be flavorful.
Is there a way to make this vegetarian? Simply omit the bacon. For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the dressing, or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the macaroni, as it will become mushy when mixed with the dressing. Always cool your components completely before combining to prevent the mayo from breaking. Do not skip blanching frozen peas; it removes the “freezer” taste and improves texture. Resist the urge to over-mix once all ingredients are combined, as this can break down the eggs and peas. Finally, do not skimp on seasoning—taste and adjust after mixing, as chilled foods often require a slightly heavier hand with salt and pepper.
Conclusion
This Creamy Pea and Egg Salad with Bacon is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that masterfully combines simple ingredients into something greater than the sum of its parts. Its perfect balance of creamy, salty, and fresh flavors, along with its satisfying textures, makes it a reliable choice for any occasion. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and customize it to your taste. It’s a testament to how timeless recipes, executed with care, always find a place at the table.