Description
A chilled, creamy Southern classic combining sweet green peas, sharp cheddar, crisp celery, and tangy dressing, perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups frozen green peas, thawed and drained
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed small
- 1 cup celery, finely diced
- 1 small red onion, minced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: No stove needed, make sure peas are thawed and chilled before starting.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Use a large mixing bowl roomy enough to fold in all ingredients without spilling.
- Assemble the Dish: Add 4 cups thawed and drained peas, 1 cup cubed sharp cheddar, 1 cup finely diced celery, and 1/2 cup minced red onion into the bowl with the dressing.
- Cook to Perfection: Gently toss everything together until all pieces are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
- Finishing Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with a little more salt or pepper if needed, and fold again gently.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving, then serve cold.
Notes
- Chill the peas before mixing to keep the salad crisp and prevent watering down the dressing.
- For a lighter version, substitute plain Greek yogurt for the sour cream or use light mayonnaise.
- Cube the cheese small so it is distributed evenly in every bite.
- Make the salad up to 24 hours ahead to let flavors meld, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: Southern pea salad, pea salad recipe, potluck side dish, creamy pea salad, make-ahead salad