Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?

Canned peas tend to be too soft and may fall apart. Frozen peas, once thawed, give the best texture and taste.

How long does it last in the fridge?

This salad keeps well for 3–4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

Absolutely! It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.

It’s not recommended. The texture of the peas and the creamy dressing don’t freeze well.

Yes—just check your mayonnaise and sour cream labels to be sure.

A creamy and savory Southern Pea Salad that’s perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or an easy side dish any day of the week.

Scale

1 (16 oz) package frozen sweet peas, thawed and uncooked
2 eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
4 to 6 slices of bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled (or 1 cup cooked ham, chopped – optional)
1/2 cup chopped green onion (or regular onion)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of choice)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp celery seeds (or 1/2 cup celery, chopped)
Dash cayenne pepper
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream

Thaw peas by leaving them at room temperature or rinsing under cold water. Drain well.
Hard-boil the eggs, peel, and chop. Cook bacon until crispy and crumble. Chop onions and celery, if using.
In a large bowl, combine peas, eggs, bacon or ham, green onions, cheddar cheese, and celery.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, celery seeds, and cayenne.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently mix until evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Keywords: Southern Pea Salad, pea salad, Southern salad, summer side, classic pea salad