### **Classic Creamy Pea Salad**
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#### **Introduction:**
Classic creamy pea salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that combines tender peas, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing, typically made with mayonnaise or sour cream. This salad is both simple and satisfying, making it a favorite for picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings. With its sweet peas, crisp onions, and tangy dressing, the salad offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, creamy pea salad is a delightful addition to any occasion.
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#### **Origin and Cultural Significance:**
Pea salad has roots in American and European culinary traditions, where peas were widely grown and enjoyed as a hearty, nutritious ingredient. The creamy version of pea salad became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the post-World War II era when convenience foods and salads made with mayonnaise became a staple in American kitchens. The dish has since become a quintessential side dish for casual gatherings, especially barbecues, holidays, and family reunions.
Culturally, creamy pea salad represents comfort and tradition. It’s often passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to the recipe. The salad is also appreciated for its ease of preparation, making it a go-to dish for busy cooks and those who want to create something that can be made in advance and served cold.
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#### **Ingredients and Quantities:**
– 3 cups frozen peas (thawed)
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup crispy bacon, crumbled (optional)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for a creamier texture)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for tang)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity)
– Salt and pepper to taste
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#### **Optional Additions:**
– 1/2 cup chopped celery (for extra crunch)
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (for added color)
– 1/4 cup green onions or chives (for a mild onion flavor)
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or almonds (for extra crunch)
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (for added flavor)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for extra tang)
– 1/2 cup diced hard-boiled eggs (for a more substantial dish)
– A pinch of dried dill or parsley (for added freshness)
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#### **Tips for Success:**
1. **Use fresh or frozen peas**: Frozen peas are commonly used in this salad because they retain their sweet flavor and bright color after thawing. Be sure to thaw the peas thoroughly before using them to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
2. **Chill the salad**: For the best flavor, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps the ingredients meld together and enhances the overall taste.
3. **Balance the dressing**: Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and sour cream to your taste preference. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
4. **Customize the ingredients**: Feel free to add or subtract ingredients depending on your preferences. The versatility of the salad means you can make it as simple or as loaded as you like.
5. **Make ahead**: This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep or a busy week.
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#### **Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the peas**: Thaw the frozen peas by letting them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or quickly defrost them under cold running water. Drain any excess water.
2. **Mix the salad ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the thawed peas, finely diced red onion, and any optional add-ins like cheese, bacon, or celery. Stir to combine.
3. **Prepare the dressing**: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the dressing to your desired consistency by adding more mayo or sour cream if needed.
4. **Combine**: Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and stir gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
5. **Chill**: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. **Serve**: Once chilled, give the salad a final stir and serve as a side dish or light meal.
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#### **Description:**
Classic creamy pea salad is a delicious and versatile dish that features sweet peas combined with crisp vegetables and a tangy, creamy dressing. The peas offer a natural sweetness, while the addition of red onion adds a subtle sharpness. The creamy dressing, often made with mayonnaise and sour cream, binds everything together, making each bite smooth and satisfying. The optional toppings like bacon and cheese bring an extra layer of flavor, while ingredients like celery or bell peppers provide a delightful crunch.
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#### **Nutritional Information (per 1/2 cup serving):**
– Calories: 200-250
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 5g
– Fat: 16g
– Saturated Fat: 3g
– Sodium: 300-450mg
– Calcium: 6% DV
– Iron: 4% DV
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
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#### **Conclusion:**
Classic creamy pea salad is a satisfying, flavorful side dish that combines the sweet taste of peas with a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s an easy-to-make, customizable recipe that can be served as a side dish for various meals or enjoyed as a light meal on its own. Whether you add bacon for crunch or keep it simple with just peas and dressing, this salad offers comfort and freshness in every bite.
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#### **Recommendation:**
Classic creamy pea salad is perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, and picnics due to its easy preparation and ability to be made ahead of time. To make it more health-conscious, consider using a lighter mayonnaise or substituting Greek yogurt for a portion of the sour cream. Adding extra vegetables or seeds can enhance the nutritional profile while maintaining its delicious flavor. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or make your own tweaks, this salad is a reliable and flavorful dish that everyone will love.
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#### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence:**
While classic creamy pea salad is often seen as indulgent due to its creamy dressing, there are plenty of ways to make it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Using lighter or reduced-fat versions of mayonnaise and sour cream can significantly cut down on calories and fat. Incorporating more vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots can boost the salad’s fiber and vitamin content. By making small modifications, you can continue to enjoy the creamy goodness of this classic dish while embracing a more health-conscious approach.