Classic Creamy Pea Salad Recipe: A Timeless Summertime Delight

Indulge in the Freshness of Summer with this Irresistible Creamy Pea Salad

As the warmth of summer envelops us, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing salad to complement the season’s bounty. The Classic Creamy Pea Salad is a timeless favorite, marrying the sweetness of garden peas with the richness of a creamy dressing. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the nuances of this beloved recipe, providing detailed instructions, nutritional insights, and Smart WW Points for those mindful of their wellness journey.

Ingredients:

  1. Freshness Unleashed:
    • 2 cups fresh or frozen peas, blanched
    • 1 cup crisp bacon, crumbled
    • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, diced
    • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
    • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  2. Creamy Elegance:
    • 1/2 cup sour cream
    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Freshness Unleashed – A Symphony of Garden Flavors

  1. Begin by blanching the peas in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, followed by an immediate plunge into ice water. This preserves their vibrant green color and crisp texture.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the blanched peas, crumbled bacon, diced sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. This medley of ingredients forms the heart of the salad, each element contributing to a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Step 2: Creamy Elegance – Crafting the Perfect Dressing

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing acts as the luscious cloak that binds the salad together.
  2. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, ensuring a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess.

Step 3: Culinary Symphony – Marrying Freshness with Creaminess

  1. Gently fold the creamy dressing into the pea mixture, ensuring every pea is generously coated. This step requires a delicate touch to preserve the integrity of each ingredient.
  2. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 9g

Smart WW Points:

  • Blue Plan: 8 SmartPoints per serving
  • Green Plan: 8 SmartPoints per serving
  • Purple Plan: 8 SmartPoints per serving

Useful Information:

  1. Pea Perfection: If fresh peas are unavailable, feel free to use frozen peas. Simply thaw them before incorporating them into the salad.
  2. Bacon Bliss: To achieve the perfect crispiness, bake the bacon in the oven until golden brown. This method ensures an even cook and a delightful crunch.
  3. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the salad a day in advance, allowing the flavors to intensify. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.
  4. Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese varieties such as gouda or smoked cheddar for a unique twist.

Conclusion:

Elevate your summer dining experience with the Classic Creamy Pea Salad. As you savor each forkful, relish in the marriage of garden-fresh peas, smoky bacon, and the luxurious creaminess of the dressing. This salad is not merely a dish; it’s a celebration of summer’s abundance, a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Whether enjoyed as a side dish at a picnic or as a star on your dinner table, this salad is a testament to the timeless allure of simple, fresh ingredients crafted with love.