Southern Pea Salad

This Southern Pea Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of texture, tradition, and comfort.

With tender-sweet peas as the foundation, each bite is layered with smoky bacon, savory ham, sharp cheddar, and the crisp bite of green onions, all wrapped in a rich, creamy dressing. It’s the kind of nostalgic, crowd-pleasing recipe that feels equally at home on a picnic table, at a holiday potluck, or beside your favorite weeknight main.

Easy to make and endlessly flexible, it’s a dish rooted in simplicity—but one that never fails to impress.

Why People Will Love This Southern Pea Salad:

Bold Contrast of Flavors

The natural sweetness of the peas balances perfectly with the smoky, salty bacon and savory ham, while sharp cheddar and fresh green onions add layers of depth and brightness.

Creamy, Comforting Texture

The smooth, rich dressing of mayo and sour cream clings to every bite, tying together crisp vegetables, tender peas, and protein-packed mix-ins into one satisfying mouthful.

Nostalgic and Familiar

This is the kind of dish that feels like it came straight from a family gathering—simple, timeless, and filled with a sense of Southern warmth and hospitality.

Quick to Make, Easy to Love

With no cooking required beyond the bacon and eggs (if used), it’s a stress-free dish that comes together in minutes yet feels like a well-thought-out favorite.

Perfect for Sharing

Whether for potlucks, cookouts, or weekday dinners, it’s a crowd-pleaser that holds up well in the fridge and often tastes even better after a little time to chill.

Key Ingredients

Sweet green peas serve as the soul of this salad—cool, tender, and slightly starchy, they bring a refreshing, garden-fresh sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the dressing and the saltiness of the meats.

Crispy bacon and diced ham add savory intensity and smoky depth, turning a simple side into a dish with true substance and Southern soul.

Shredded sharp cheddar cheese melts just slightly into the mix, adding a creamy, tangy bite that enhances the peas and complements the creamy base.

Green onions offer a fresh, mildly pungent crunch that cuts through the richness, bringing balance and brightness to every forkful.

Mayonnaise and sour cream create the signature creamy dressing—smooth, tangy, and luxurious—binding the ingredients together while letting each one shine.

Expert Tips for Southern Pea Salad

Thaw Peas Properly for Best Texture

For peas that stay firm and vibrant, thaw them gently under cold running water or in the fridge—avoid microwaving for too long, which can make them mushy. Once thawed, pat them dry to prevent a watery salad.

Balance the Creaminess

Mayonnaise and sour cream create a rich base, but their ratio affects the flavor. For a lighter, tangier version, lean slightly more on sour cream. For a deeper, richer mouthfeel, increase the mayo. Always taste and adjust.

Season in Layers, Not Just the Dressing

Lightly season the pea mixture before adding the dressing. This ensures that the salt and pepper enhance every component, not just the creamy coating.

Use Freshly Cooked Bacon for Maximum Flavor

Pre-packaged bacon bits are convenient but can lack depth. Cooking your own bacon until crisp, then crumbling it fresh, adds an irresistible smoky crunch and elevates the dish significantly.

Let It Rest and Chill Fully

Don’t rush the chill time. A minimum of 1 hour in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld, the dressing to set, and the texture to firm up—resulting in a salad that tastes even better than when first mixed.

Fold Gently to Protect the Peas

When mixing the dressing into the salad, use a soft spatula and fold slowly to keep the peas intact. Over-stirring can cause them to break down and create a mushy texture.

Add Crunch Right Before Serving (if using extras)

If you’re adding chopped celery, nuts, or water chestnuts for extra crunch, stir them in just before serving to preserve their texture and snap.

Southern Pea Salad

Ingredients

2 (16-ounce) bags frozen sweet peas, thawed (do not cook)

3/4 cup cooked ham, diced into small cubes

1/2 cup crispy bacon crumbles (store-bought or freshly cooked)

4 to 5 green onions, finely chopped (use both white and green parts for flavor)

1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your preferred variety)

2/3 cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light, depending on preference)

8 ounces sour cream (about 1 cup)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

A pinch of cayenne pepper, optional (for a hint of heat)

Instructions:

Combine the Main Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed sweet peas, diced ham, crispy bacon crumbles, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Make the Creamy Dressing:

In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper (if using) until smooth and well blended.

Toss and Chill:

Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve Cold:

Give the salad a quick stir before serving and enjoy chilled.

Important Notes When Making Southern Pea Salad

Peas Are the Star—Treat Them Gently

Because peas are delicate, especially when thawed, avoid over-handling or aggressively stirring. A light hand preserves their shape and keeps the salad visually appealing and texturally intact.

Proper Thawing Makes a Difference

If using frozen peas, ensure they’re fully thawed and well-drained before mixing. Excess moisture can dilute the dressing and make the salad soupy. Pat them dry with a paper towel for best results.

Let the Flavors Marinate

This salad truly shines after resting. At least one hour of chilling allows the garlic, pepper, and creamy dressing to permeate the ingredients, softening harsh edges and creating a cohesive, balanced flavor.

Ingredient Quality Matters

Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged for better melt and flavor. Choose high-quality ham and bacon for a deeper savory backbone. Each element contributes noticeably in a cold salad like this.

Adaptability Is a Strength

This is a forgiving, flexible recipe—swap in what you have: red onions for green, Greek yogurt for sour cream, or even roasted chickpeas for crunch. The base is strong enough to carry your creativity without losing its Southern charm.

Season Carefully—Then Reassess After Chilling

Ingredients like bacon, ham, and cheese carry salt. Always taste the salad after it has chilled, as the salt intensifies over time. Add extra seasoning only if truly needed.

How to Enjoy Southern Pea Salad After Cooking

Let It Chill Completely Before Serving

This salad is best served cold. Once assembled, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This rest time lets the dressing absorb into the ingredients, enhancing the depth of flavor and giving the salad a more cohesive texture.

Serve in a Chilled Bowl

For maximum freshness and presentation, serve the salad in a cold bowl or on a chilled platter—especially helpful during hot weather or outdoor gatherings. It helps preserve the creamy texture and keeps the ingredients vibrant and crisp.

Pair with Southern or Picnic Classics

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fried chicken, BBQ, or sandwiches. It’s a perfect complement to richer mains because of its cool, creamy, and slightly tangy profile.

Try pairing with:

BBQ ribs or pulled pork

Fried or grilled chicken

Deviled eggs and cornbread

Sandwiches, burgers, or sliders

Stir Gently Before Serving

Right before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute any dressing that may have settled. This ensures every bite is evenly coated and delicious.

Garnish for Extra Appeal (Optional)

Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or dill), a few extra bacon crumbles, or a dash of paprika or cayenne on top for a beautiful finish and flavor boost.

Store Leftovers Properly

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, though the peas may soften slightly over time. If needed, refresh with a spoonful of mayo or sour cream before serving again.

Enjoy It as a Side, Snack, or Light Meal

This salad isn’t just a side—it can stand on its own. Enjoy a scoop on crackers, in a lettuce wrap, or as a creamy topping for baked potatoes or toast for a light, protein-rich lunch.