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Creamy Southern Pea Salad

Creamy Southern Pea Salad

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Creamy Southern Pea Salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make side dish featuring tender baby green peas, smoky turkey bacon, crisp fresh vegetables, and a tangy, plant-based creamy dressing. Perfectly balanced with creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors, this salad is ideal for picnics, family dinners, and potlucks, adding comfort and zest to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 cups frozen baby green peas
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Protein

  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (plant-based)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook and Cool the Peas: Boil the frozen baby green peas for 2-3 minutes until tender but not mushy. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to preserve their vibrant green color and fresh texture.
  2. Prepare the Turkey Bacon: Cook smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces to add a satisfying crunchy texture to the salad.
  3. Chop the Fresh Vegetables: Dice the red bell pepper, red onion, and celery evenly to ensure consistent texture and flavor throughout the salad.
  4. Make the Tangy Dressing (natural): In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (plant-based), apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard (natural), salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed to achieve the perfect tangy flavor.
  5. Combine All Ingredients: Gently toss the cooled peas, chopped turkey bacon, fresh vegetables, and dressing in a large bowl until everything is evenly coated with the creamy, tangy dressing.
  6. Add Fresh Parsley: Stir in the freshly chopped parsley right before serving to maintain its bright flavor and vibrant color.

Notes

  • Use fresh or thawed peas for better texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook the turkey bacon; crispy bacon adds great smoky crunch without greasiness.
  • Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Adjust the amount of apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard to balance the creaminess and tanginess according to your taste.
  • This salad is best served cold, making it an ideal refreshing side dish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Creamy Southern Pea Salad, plant-based salad, turkey bacon salad, tangy dressing, summer side dish, easy pea salad

Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/creamy-southern-pea-salad/