Cracked Out Pea Salad Recipe

Cracked Out Pea Salad isn’t just another side dish; it’s a revelation. From the first creamy, crunchy, and undeniably flavorful bite, my family was hooked. Weekends became synonymous with requests for “that amazing pea salad,” and potlucks were no longer complete without its vibrant presence on the table. What makes it so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet peas, savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and a creamy, tangy dressing that elevates the humble pea to superstar status. Forget everything you thought you knew about pea salad. This recipe, dubbed “Cracked Out” for its addictive quality, is about to become your new go-to for barbecues, picnics, or simply a delightful lunch. Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds – and the recipe!

Ingredients

The magic of Cracked Out Pea Salad lies in the careful selection and combination of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the signature flavor and texture that makes this salad so irresistible. Let’s break down each ingredient and understand why it’s essential:

• Frozen Peas (1 pound, or approximately 4 cups): Frozen peas are the star of the show, and for good reason. Using frozen peas, as opposed to canned, ensures a naturally sweet and vibrant flavor, along with a pleasingly firm texture. Canned peas can often be mushy and lack the fresh taste that is crucial for this salad. When selecting frozen peas, opt for petite peas if you prefer a more delicate texture, or standard frozen peas for a heartier bite. The key is to thaw them properly, which we’ll discuss in the instructions, to prevent a watery salad.
• Cooked Bacon (8-10 slices, cooked until crispy and crumbled): Bacon is the “crack” in “Cracked Out Pea Salad.” Its smoky, salty, and savory flavor profile provides a counterpoint to the sweetness of the peas and the creaminess of the dressing. Crispy bacon is essential for both flavor and texture; limp or undercooked bacon will not deliver the same satisfying crunch and intense flavor. Thick-cut bacon is highly recommended for its robust taste and substantial texture, but any good quality bacon will work. Make sure to drain the bacon thoroughly after cooking to avoid excess grease in your salad.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Sharp cheddar cheese adds a tangy, bold, and slightly nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. The sharpness cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and the sweetness of the peas, creating a balanced flavor profile. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but shredding your own cheese from a block is always preferable for better flavor and texture. For an even bolder flavor, consider using extra sharp cheddar or a blend of sharp and white cheddar.
• Mayonnaise (1 cup, full-fat recommended): Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the dressing and binds all the ingredients together. Full-fat mayonnaise is highly recommended for its richer flavor and creamier texture. Light mayonnaise can be used for a slightly lighter option, but it may compromise the overall richness and flavor. For the best results, choose a high-quality mayonnaise. You can even experiment with different types of mayonnaise, such as avocado oil mayonnaise, for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that enhances the complexity of the dressing. It provides a slight acidity that balances the richness of the mayonnaise and the sweetness of the peas. Full-fat or reduced-fat sour cream can be used; the choice depends on your preference for richness. Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream for a tangier and slightly lighter option, but it may alter the texture slightly.
• Red Onion (1/4 cup, finely diced): Red onion provides a sharp, pungent bite that adds another layer of flavor to the salad. The slight spiciness of the red onion contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the peas and the richness of the dressing. Finely dicing the red onion is crucial to ensure it disperses evenly throughout the salad and doesn’t overpower other flavors. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes to mellow its sharpness before adding it to the salad. Alternatively, you can use a milder onion like sweet onion or shallots for a less intense onion flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon): Apple cider vinegar adds a crucial touch of acidity that brightens the flavors of the salad and cuts through the richness of the dressing. It balances the sweetness and creaminess, preventing the salad from being overly heavy. Apple cider vinegar also has a slightly fruity and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute white wine vinegar or lemon juice, but apple cider vinegar is preferred for its unique flavor profile.
• Sugar (1 tablespoon): Sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the peas and balances the acidity of the vinegar and sour cream. A small amount of sugar is all that’s needed to round out the flavors and create a harmonious taste. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your preference, depending on the sweetness of your peas and your personal taste. For a sugar-free option, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, but be mindful of the sweetness level, as sugar substitutes can sometimes be more intensely sweet than sugar.
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Salt and black pepper are essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in the salad. Salt brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients and balances the sweetness. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice. Season generously to taste, starting with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and adjusting as needed. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning after all ingredients are combined.
• Optional Ingredients: While the core ingredients listed above are essential for the classic Cracked Out Pea Salad, there are several optional ingredients you can add to customize the flavor and texture to your liking. These include:
  • Celery (1/4 cup, finely diced): Adds a refreshing crunch and subtle celery flavor.
  • Water Chestnuts (1/4 cup, chopped): Provides a unique water chestnut crunch and slightly sweet flavor.
  • Fresh Dill (1-2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the peas and bacon.
  • Pickled Relish (1-2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy and slightly sweet pickle flavor and texture.
  • Hard-boiled Eggs (2, chopped): Adds protein and a creamy texture.
  • Hot Sauce (a few dashes): For a subtle kick of heat.

Instructions

Making Cracked Out Pea Salad is incredibly easy and requires minimal cooking. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create this addictive side dish:

1. Thaw the Peas: Begin by thawing the frozen peas. The best way to thaw peas for this salad is to gently run them under cool water in a colander until they are no longer frozen but still slightly chilled. Avoid thawing them in warm water or microwaving them, as this can make them mushy. Once thawed, drain the peas thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial to prevent a watery salad.
2. Cook and Crumble the Bacon: Cook the bacon until it is crispy. You can cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven, or in the microwave. Oven-baked bacon tends to be less greasy and cooks more evenly. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease. Allow the bacon to cool slightly, then crumble it into small pieces. Crispy bacon is key to the texture and flavor of this salad, so ensure it is cooked thoroughly.
3. Prepare the Red Onion and Cheddar: Finely dice the red onion. Remember, if you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes and then drain it well. Shred the sharp cheddar cheese. If you are using a block of cheese, shred it using a cheese grater. Pre-shredded cheese can be used for convenience, but freshly shredded cheese generally has better flavor and texture.
4. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until they are smooth and well combined. This mixture forms the creamy and tangy base of the dressing. Taste the dressing and adjust the sugar and vinegar to your preference. Some people prefer a sweeter dressing, while others prefer a tangier one.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the thawed and drained peas, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red onion to the bowl with the dressing. If you are using any optional ingredients like celery, water chestnuts, fresh dill, pickled relish, or hard-boiled eggs, add them at this stage as well.
6. Season and Mix: Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Start with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and adjust according to your preference. Gently stir all the ingredients together until they are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the peas mushy. You want to ensure that all the ingredients are well incorporated and the dressing is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
7. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pea salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Chilling the salad also helps to firm up the dressing and enhance the overall texture. For the best flavor, chill for at least 1-2 hours or even overnight. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to taste. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving – Estimated, based on standard recipe and 6 servings)

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories (This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes)

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown per Serving:

• Fat: 30-35 grams (primarily from mayonnaise, sour cream, bacon, and cheese)
• Saturated Fat: 10-15 grams
• Cholesterol: 50-70 mg
• Sodium: 400-500 mg (can vary greatly depending on bacon and cheese used)
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams (primarily from peas, sugar, and onion)
• Fiber: 3-4 grams
• Sugar: 5-7 grams (added sugar and natural sugars from peas)
• Protein: 8-10 grams (from peas, bacon, and cheese)

Important Notes on Nutrition:

• These are estimated values and can vary significantly based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, as well as portion sizes.
• Full-fat mayonnaise and bacon contribute to the higher fat content. Using light mayonnaise and leaner bacon can reduce the fat and calorie count, but may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
• The sodium content can be significant, especially depending on the bacon and cheese used. Choose lower-sodium bacon and cheese options if you are watching your sodium intake.
• Peas are a good source of fiber and some vitamins and minerals.
• This salad is relatively high in calories and fat due to the creamy dressing and bacon. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online recipe analyzers or nutrition calculators, inputting the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (includes thawing peas, cooking bacon, chopping vegetables, shredding cheese, and making dressing)
• Chill Time: Minimum 30 minutes (ideally 1-2 hours or overnight)
• Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour (plus chill time)

Time Breakdown:

• Thawing Peas: 5 minutes
• Cooking Bacon: 10 minutes
• Chopping Vegetables and Shredding Cheese: 10 minutes
• Making Dressing and Combining Ingredients: 5 minutes
• Chilling: 30 minutes minimum (up to overnight)

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

• Pre-cooked Bacon: Using pre-cooked bacon bits can significantly reduce prep time, though freshly cooked bacon is always preferred for best flavor and texture.
• Pre-shredded Cheese: Using pre-shredded cheese saves time on shredding.
• Thaw Peas in Advance: Thaw the peas in the refrigerator overnight to save time on the day of preparation.
• Prepare Components Separately: You can cook the bacon and shred the cheese ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the salad. The dressing can also be made in advance.

While the preparation is relatively quick, the chill time is essential for allowing the flavors to meld and the salad to reach its optimal texture and taste. Plan accordingly if you are making this salad for a specific event.

How to Serve

Cracked Out Pea Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Its creamy, crunchy, and flavorful profile makes it a perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of dishes and occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Side Dish:
  • Barbecues and Cookouts: Pair it with grilled burgers, hot dogs, ribs, chicken, or steak. Its cool and refreshing nature is a perfect contrast to hot-off-the-grill items.
  • Picnics and Potlucks: An ideal dish for picnics and potlucks as it travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser. It can be made ahead of time and stays delicious even at room temperature for a reasonable period (though chilling is recommended).
  • Sandwiches and Wraps: Serve alongside sandwiches like pulled pork, BLTs, or turkey sandwiches, or wraps for a complete and satisfying lunch or light dinner.
  • Fried Chicken or Fish: The creamy coolness of the pea salad complements the crispy and savory flavors of fried chicken or fish beautifully.
  • Ham or Turkey: Serve with sliced ham or turkey for a classic and satisfying meal. It’s particularly popular around holidays like Easter and Thanksgiving.
  • Pasta Salads: Include it as part of a pasta salad buffet or serve alongside a lighter pasta salad for a varied and balanced meal.
• As a Topping or Filling:
  • Lettuce Wraps: Spoon pea salad into lettuce wraps for a light and refreshing low-carb meal or appetizer.
  • Crackers or Crostini: Serve as a dip or spread with crackers, crostini, or baguette slices for a simple appetizer or snack.
  • Stuffed Tomatoes or Avocados: Scoop out tomatoes or avocados and fill them with pea salad for a creative and healthy appetizer or light lunch.
  • Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with pea salad instead of traditional toppings like sour cream or cheese for a unique and flavorful twist.
• Serving Tips:
  • Serve Chilled: Always serve Cracked Out Pea Salad chilled for the best flavor and texture.
  • Garnish: Garnish with extra crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of fresh dill, or a dusting of paprika for visual appeal.
  • Serving Bowl: Use a pretty serving bowl to enhance the presentation of the salad, especially for gatherings and potlucks.
  • Spoon: Provide a serving spoon or scoop for easy serving.
  • Make Ahead: Make the salad a day ahead of time for even better flavor development. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Additional Tips for the Best Cracked Out Pea Salad

To elevate your Cracked Out Pea Salad from delicious to extraordinary, consider these additional tips:

1. Don’t Overcook the Bacon: Crispy bacon is crucial, but avoid overcooking it to the point of being burnt or brittle. Bacon that is slightly chewy with crispy edges is ideal. Overcooked bacon can become too dry and lose some of its flavor. Cook bacon over medium heat and watch it carefully, removing it from the heat as soon as it’s crispy.
2. Toast the Bacon (Optional): For an even more intense bacon flavor, consider toasting the crumbled bacon after it’s cooked. Spread the crumbled bacon on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s slightly darker and even crispier. Watch it closely to prevent burning. Toasting the bacon enhances its smoky and savory notes.
3. Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess to Your Preference: The recipe provides a starting point for sugar and vinegar, but personal preferences vary. Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the sugar for sweetness and apple cider vinegar for tanginess. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more sugar. If you prefer a tangier salad, add a touch more vinegar or lemon juice.
4. Add Fresh Herbs for Brightness: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives can add a layer of freshness and herbaceousness to the salad. Finely chop fresh herbs and add them to the salad along with the other ingredients. Dill is particularly complementary to peas and bacon. Start with 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs and adjust to taste.
5. Make it Ahead of Time (But Add Bacon Just Before Serving): Cracked Out Pea Salad is best when the flavors have had time to meld, so making it a few hours or even a day in advance is recommended. However, to ensure the bacon stays crispy, consider adding the crumbled bacon just before serving. You can prepare the salad base (peas, cheese, onion, dressing) ahead of time and then stir in the bacon right before serving to maintain its optimal texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use canned peas instead of frozen peas?

A: While you can use canned peas in a pinch, frozen peas are highly recommended for Cracked Out Pea Salad. Frozen peas have a naturally sweeter and fresher flavor and a firmer texture that holds up better in the salad. Canned peas can be mushy and have a less desirable flavor. If you must use canned peas, drain them very well and rinse them under cold water to remove some of the canned flavor. Pat them dry thoroughly before adding them to the salad.

Q2: Can I make this pea salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, Cracked Out Pea Salad is actually better when made ahead of time! Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes (ideally 1-2 hours or overnight) allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can prepare the entire salad, except for the bacon, up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For optimal bacon crispiness, stir in the crumbled bacon just before serving.

Q3: How long does Cracked Out Pea Salad last in the refrigerator?

A: Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Cracked Out Pea Salad will typically last for 3-4 days. However, for the best flavor and texture, it is best consumed within 2-3 days. Mayonnaise-based salads should always be refrigerated promptly and kept cold to prevent spoilage.

Q4: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

A: Making this recipe entirely dairy-free or vegan requires some substitutions, but it is possible. To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free mayonnaise and sour cream alternatives. For vegan, you would also need to replace the bacon. You can use plant-based bacon alternatives, such as tempeh bacon or mushroom bacon, for a smoky and savory element. Vegan cheddar cheese alternatives are also available. The flavor profile will be slightly different from the original recipe, but still delicious.

Q5: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

A: Cracked Out Pea Salad is very adaptable! Some popular variations include:
* Adding different cheeses: Try using Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
* Adding vegetables: Include diced celery, water chestnuts, bell peppers, or carrots for added crunch and flavor.
* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
* Herb variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like tarragon, chives, or parsley in addition to or instead of dill.
* Pickle power: Add chopped dill pickles or sweet pickles for extra tang and sweetness.
* Egg-cellent addition: Stir in chopped hard-boiled eggs for added protein and creaminess.

Enjoy experimenting with these tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make Cracked Out Pea Salad your own signature dish!

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