If you think peas are just for soup or mushy sides, think again. Pea salads are a fun and tasty way to enjoy these little green gems. From crispy bacon to creamy dressings, each recipe brings something delicious to the table. So, whether you're looking to impress at a picnic or just want a revitalizing side dish, stick around. You won't believe how versatile peas can be!
Classic Pea and Bacon Salad
Classic Pea and Bacon Salad is a delightful dish that marries the sweetness of peas with the savory crunch of bacon. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any meal. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a favorite among friends and family.
With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and chopped red onion.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently stir until everything is well coated. If desired, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Extra Tips:
To improve the flavor of your Classic Pea and Bacon Salad, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness or incorporating chopped celery for added crunch.
If you're looking for a healthier version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste, as the saltiness of the bacon can affect the overall flavor.
This salad can be made a day in advance, which is perfect for gatherings, and will keep well in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
Creamy Pea Salad With Dill

Creamy Pea Salad with Dill is a delightful and rejuvenating dish that combines the sweetness of peas with a rich, creamy dressing and the aromatic flavor of fresh dill. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for dinner.
It's quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you're a pea lover or just looking for a delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable, this salad is sure to please your palate.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas (thawed)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed peas, sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped dill, red onion, celery, and lemon juice.
Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well coated and evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once everything is combined, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Serve chilled, and enjoy the creamy, rejuvenating taste of this delightful pea salad.
Extra Tips:
For an added crunch, consider tossing in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Fresh peas will provide a sweeter taste compared to frozen, but either works well.
Feel free to experiment with additional herbs, such as parsley or chives, to customize the flavor to your liking.
Finally, this salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient make-ahead option for busy days.
Sweet Pea Salad With Feta and Mint
Sweet Pea Salad with Feta and Mint is a revitalizing and vibrant dish that perfectly combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the creamy texture of feta cheese and the aromatic freshness of mint. Ideal for a light lunch or as a side dish for barbecues and gatherings, this salad is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.
The bright green peas, crumbled feta, and chopped mint come together to create a delightful medley that's both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for garnish
To prepare the Sweet Pea Salad with Feta and Mint, start by blanching the peas in boiling salted water for about 2-3 minutes until they're tender but still bright green. If using frozen peas, simply thaw them in warm water.
Drain and rinse the peas under cold water to stop the cooking process. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched peas, crumbled feta, chopped mint, and diced red onion.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients well. If desired, sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
When making this salad, feel free to adjust the quantities of feta and mint according to your taste preferences. If you want to amplify the flavors further, letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Additionally, this salad can be customized by adding other ingredients such as diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and texture. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a delightful addition to your meal!
Crunchy Pea Salad With Almonds

Crunchy pea salad with almonds is a delightful and invigorating dish that's perfect for any occasion. This vibrant salad combines the sweet, crisp texture of fresh peas with the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Tossed with a zesty dressing, this salad can serve as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light lunch. It's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free addition to your meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the peas, sliced almonds, red onion, and parsley.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider toasting the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, which will improve their nuttiness.
Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients such as diced bell peppers or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.
This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, but it's best enjoyed fresh for ideal crunchiness.
Mediterranean Pea Salad With Chickpeas
Mediterranean Pea Salad with Chickpeas is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the sweet flavor of peas with hearty chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing. This salad isn't only visually appealing but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect option for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
The Mediterranean flavors come together beautifully, offering a revitalizing taste that complements any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peas, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.
Extra Tips: For added flavor, consider marinating the chickpeas in the dressing for a few hours before mixing them into the salad.
You can also customize the salad by adding other ingredients like olives, bell peppers, or avocado for more texture and taste.
If using frozen peas, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the salad. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.