If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, savory, and utterly comforting dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to your table, the Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe is absolutely your go-to. This delightful salad is a harmonious blend of tender sweet peas, smoky bacon or ham, sharp cheddar, and creamy dressing, all coming together in a way that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly fresh. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, a picnic, or just craving a side that’s bursting with flavor, this recipe captures the heart of Southern hospitality in every bite.

Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this salad lies in how simple yet thoughtfully chosen its ingredients are. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing taste, texture, and color—from the pop of sweet peas to the richness of creamy mayo and tangy sour cream, making the salad both visually appealing and palate-pleasing.

16-ounce frozen sweet peas: Opt for thawed but uncooked to keep their bright color and fresh snap.
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped: Adds protein and a creamy texture that complements the peas perfectly.
4-6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled or 1 cup cooked ham, chopped (optional): Brings that smoky, savory flavor essential to Southern cooking.
1/2 cup chopped green onion: Offers a mild punch of oniony freshness without overpowering the salad.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides sharpness and melt-in-your-mouth goodness; feel free to use your favorite cheese.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to add a subtle kick without stealing the spotlight.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors effortlessly.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle depth of flavor that lingers pleasantly.
1/2 teaspoon celery seeds or 1/2 cup chopped celery: Adds a hint of aromatic crunch for texture contrast.
Dash of cayenne pepper: This little extra heat brightens the salad nicely without making it spicy.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that holds everything together with richness and tang.
1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a subtle tartness that balances the mayo’s creaminess.

How to Make Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe

Step 1: Combine Fresh Ingredients

Start by tossing the thawed sweet peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and your choice of either crispy bacon or chopped ham into a large salad bowl. Add in the green onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and your seasonings: black pepper, salt, garlic powder, celery seeds or chopped celery, and just a dash of cayenne pepper. This colorful medley forms the heart and soul of the salad.

Step 2: Mix in Creamy Dressing

Next, stir in the mayonnaise and sour cream. These creamy components are what give the salad its signature richness and meld all the ingredients together. Make sure you mix thoroughly for an even coating without squashing the texture of the peas or eggs.

Step 3: Chill for Flavor Harmony

Pop your salad into the refrigerator for a couple of hours. This resting period is crucial—it lets the flavors marry beautifully, turning this simple combination into something truly memorable and harmonious.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, serve your chilled Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe to delighted friends and family. It generously serves 6 to 8, making it the perfect addition to your next potluck, barbecue, or festive spread.

How to Serve Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For a pop of freshness and extra flair, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley or dill over the top before serving. A pinch of paprika adds beautiful color while enhancing the smoky notes from the bacon. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, consider adding a few toasted pecans or crunchy fried onions on top for an irresistible finish.

Side Dishes

This salad makes an excellent companion to many Southern favorites. Pair it with grilled chicken, pulled pork, or classic fried catfish for a full Southern feast. It also holds its own alongside cornbread and baked beans, elevating your meal with its unique blend of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe in individual mason jars or small ramekins for a charming picnic or buffet display. For an unexpected twist, use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or stuff into hollowed tomatoes to impress guests with a fresh presentation. The vibrant colors make it a standout on any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious pea salad, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days, retaining its bright flavors and creamy texture. Be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not ideal for freezing due to the mayonnaise and sour cream base, which tend to separate and become watery when thawed. For the best taste experience, prepare only the amount you plan to eat within a few days.

Reheating

Because this is a chilled salad, reheating is not recommended. Serve it cold or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. If it’s been refrigerated, a short sit-out before serving can soften it slightly without compromising freshness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you have fresh peas, you can use them. Just blanch them quickly in boiling water until tender-crisp, then cool in ice water before adding to the salad to preserve their vibrant color and texture.

Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon or ham, and consider adding toasted nuts or extra celery for crunch. This keeps the salad flavorful while being completely vegetarian-friendly.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream?

For a lighter version or different flavor, Greek yogurt can replace some or all of the mayo and sour cream. It adds a pleasant tang and creamy texture while reducing calories.

How long before serving should I make this salad?

Ideally, prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld perfectly. Making it the day before is even better—just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh its creamy consistency.

What can I do if the salad seems too thick or dry?

If you find the salad too thick, stir in a little more sour cream, mayonnaise, or even a splash of buttermilk to loosen it up. Adjust seasoning afterward as needed to maintain the perfect balance of tastes.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and joyful about sharing a Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe with loved ones. Its perfect blend of creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors makes it a beloved Southern staple that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist. I encourage you to give this timeless recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite that keeps your gatherings bright, flavorful, and full of smiles.