Ingredients:

  • 16 oz (450 g) frozen green peas, thawed and drained
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled (or 1/2 cup / 75 g bacon bits) — optional but traditional
  • 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced (about 1/2 cup / 75 g) OR 3 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise (light or full-fat as preferred)
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream OR plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) sweet pickle relish (or dill relish for less sweetness)
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp (12–15 g) granulated sugar (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp (1.5 g) celery seed (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper)
  • Optional garnish: 2–3 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • Optional garnish: Extra crumbled bacon or a few extra scallion slices

Instructions:

  1. Prepare peas and bacon: Thaw peas under cold running water in a colander; drain thoroughly and pat dry. Cook bacon until crisp in a skillet or oven, drain on paper towels and crumble. Alternatively use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits; reserve a tablespoon of crumbled bacon for garnish if desired.
  2. Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, sweet pickle relish, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, sugar (if using), celery seed (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper until smooth and evenly combined.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine drained peas, crumbled bacon (keeping reserved garnish if desired), diced red onion or sliced scallions, and shredded sharp cheddar. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  4. Chill and finish: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and for the salad to chill. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a touch more sugar or vinegar. Garnish with reserved bacon and chopped herbs.
  5. Serving and tips: Serve cold as a side dish for picnics, potlucks, or barbecues. Ensure peas are bright and not mushy, bacon is crisp and cooled so it stays crunchy, and dressing is smooth and coats ingredients evenly.