There's something so nostalgic and comforting about a bowl of classic pea salad with bacon. With its creamy dressing, crisp bits of bacon, sharp cheese, and a touch of sweetness from the peas, it’s the kind of side dish that instantly transports you to backyard barbecues and family potlucks.

I first tried this dish at a summer cookout years ago, served in a vintage Pyrex bowl alongside grilled burgers and sweet tea. Since then, it’s become a staple in our warm-weather rotation—not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s incredibly easy to throw together and always a crowd-pleaser.

Let’s dive into why this simple salad deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box.

Why You'll Love This Classic Pea Salad With Bacon

Get ready to meet your new favorite side dish. This classic pea salad combines bold flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch in every bite.

First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. We're talking under 15 minutes from start to finish, with no cooking required beyond crisping up some bacon. You can even use store-bought bacon bits in a pinch!

It’s also budget-friendly. A few pantry staples and a bag of frozen peas are all you really need. This means you can whip it up on a whim without breaking the bank—or making an extra grocery run.

Then there’s the make-ahead factor. This salad actually gets better as it sits, so you can prepare it the night before and let the flavors mingle in the fridge. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just stress-free meal prep.

Lastly, it’s a dish that’s surprisingly versatile. Want to make it lighter? Sub in Greek yogurt. Need a vegetarian option? Skip the bacon and toss in some sunflower seeds for crunch. There are so many ways to make it your own.

Now that you're sold on this creamy classic, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that bring it all together.

Ingredients Notes

This dish proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly memorable. Each element of this classic pea salad with bacon contributes a different texture or flavor, creating that perfect forkful every time.

Frozen peas are the star of the show here. You don’t even need to cook them—just thaw and toss. They’re sweet, firm, and hold their shape beautifully in the salad. Make sure to drain them well to avoid a watery dressing.

Bacon brings that savory crunch and smoky depth that balances out the sweetness of the peas and dressing. Fry your own for maximum crispiness, or use pre-cooked crumbles to save time.

Sharp cheddar cheese adds a punch of flavor and a nice bite. I like to cube mine for chunkier texture, but shredded cheese works just as well. Go for a bold, aged cheddar if you want that extra tang.

Red onion gives the salad just the right amount of zing. If you're not a fan of strong onion flavor, try soaking the chopped onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding—it takes the edge off while keeping the color and crunch.

You’ll also need a simple dressing of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar. The vinegar cuts through the richness, and the sugar balances the savory elements. As for equipment, all you really need is a large mixing bowl and a spoon. That’s it—no fancy gadgets required.

How To Make This Classic Pea Salad With Bacon

Making this salad is as easy as it gets, but there are a few little tips that take it from good to great.

Start by thawing your peas. You can do this by letting them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or by running them under cool water in a colander. Pat them dry with a clean towel to prevent excess moisture from watering down the dressing.

While the peas thaw, cook your bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Let it drain on paper towels, then crumble or chop it into small pieces. If you're using pre-cooked bacon, make sure it’s crisp enough to add some texture to the salad.

Next, whisk together your dressing in a small bowl. Combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and creamy. Give it a quick taste—you can always adjust the sweetness or acidity based on your preference.

Now it’s time to assemble the salad. In a large bowl, toss the thawed peas with diced cheddar, chopped red onion, and the crispy bacon. Pour the dressing over the top and gently fold everything together until coated.

Finally, let the salad chill. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and gives the salad that irresistibly creamy texture.

Total time from start to finish? About 15 minutes of prep, plus chill time. It’s low-effort, high-reward—and totally worth it.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this classic pea salad is how well it stores, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

To store, simply transfer the salad to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, though it’s at its peak flavor in the first 24 hours after chilling.

If you're planning to make it ahead, you can prep all the components separately—chop the bacon, cube the cheese, and mix the dressing—then combine them right before serving. This keeps everything tasting fresh and crisp.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as the creamy dressing and peas don’t thaw well and can become watery or grainy.

When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, give the salad a good stir. If it seems a little dry, a spoonful of mayo or a splash of vinegar can refresh the texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the joys of this recipe is how flexible it is. Whether you’re trying to clean out the fridge or accommodate dietary needs, there are endless ways to tweak this pea salad.

For a lighter version, swap out half (or all) of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy twist and cuts down on fat without sacrificing creaminess.

To make it vegetarian, simply leave out the bacon. You can add roasted sunflower seeds, chopped almonds, or even crispy chickpeas for that satisfying crunch.

If you want to add more veggies, try tossing in diced bell pepper or celery for extra color and texture. Even a handful of shredded carrots or corn can work beautifully.

Craving a little heat? Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also swap in pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

Feel free to experiment and make it your own. This recipe is endlessly customizable—and it just might become your new favorite canvas for creativity.