Classic Southern Pea Salad Recipe

Introduction

Few dishes evoke the warmth of family gatherings, summer barbecues, and nostalgic family recipes quite like a classic Southern Pea Salad. This dish, treasured and passed down through generations, exemplifies the art of combining simple ingredients into a harmonious and satisfying salad that captures the essence of Southern hospitality. Its roots stretch back over 75 years, rooted in the traditions of southern kitchens where fresh, seasonal produce and hearty flavors come together effortlessly. The charm of this salad lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to serve as a side dish or a main course during hot summer days.

At Love With Recipes, we celebrate dishes like this that blend history, flavor, and simplicity, bringing comfort and joy to every table. Whether you’re planning a family picnic, a potluck, or a quick weeknight supper, this Southern Pea Salad offers a delightful combination of textures—crisp lettuce, tender peas, creamy mayonnaise, smoky bacon, and savory eggs—all coming together in a refreshing, chilled salad. Its fresh, vibrant flavors will leave you craving more, making it an instant favorite among friends and family alike.

Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large mixing bowls — preferably glass or stainless steel for easy tossing and clean-up
• Sharp chef’s knife for chopping ingredients
• Cutting board, sturdy and stable
• Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient measurement
• Pot for boiling eggs and cooking bacon
• Slotted spoon or tongs for removing bacon from pan
• Colander or strainer for rinsing fresh peas or draining frozen peas
• Peeler (optional, for peeling eggs if desired)
• Serving utensils, such as salad servers or tongs
• Refrigerator space for chilling the salad before serving

Tags

Summer, Easy, Family Favorite, Traditional, Picnic, Side Dish, No Bake, Quick, Southern Cuisine, Comfort Food

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 6 generous servings, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. Each serving provides a hearty portion, balancing freshness and richness, suitable for enjoying as a main or side dish.

Difficulty Level

Easy — Designed for cooks of all skill levels, this recipe emphasizes straightforward techniques like boiling eggs and crisping bacon, combined with gentle tossing of fresh ingredients. Its simplicity makes it ideal for weeknight cooking or last-minute preparations.

Allergen Information

• Eggs: Contains eggs
• Bacon: Contains pork; check labels for gluten or other allergens if necessary
• Mayonnaise: Contains eggs and possibly soy or other additives depending on the brand
• Tomatoes & Onions: Common allergens for some individuals

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for omnivores and those following a low-carb or keto diet. For vegetarians, omit bacon or substitute with vegetarian bacon or smoked tempeh. For vegan options, replace mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives and omit eggs and bacon.

Course

Side Dish, Salad, Light Meal

Cuisine

Southern American, American Comfort Food

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and preparing them appropriately. Wash the lettuce thoroughly under cold running water, then tear it into bite-sized pieces. This process ensures uniform pieces that are easy to eat and distribute evenly throughout the salad. If using fresh peas, rinse them in a colander or sieve to remove any dirt or debris, then set aside. For frozen peas, measure out two cups and transfer them to a bowl. Allow frozen peas to thaw at room temperature or run them under cool water for a few minutes to speed up the process.

Next, peel the red onion and finely chop it to ensure that its sharp flavor is dispersed evenly and does not overpower the dish. Prepare the eggs by boiling them in a pot of water. Fill a medium-sized pot with enough water to cover the eggs completely. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes to achieve firm, fully cooked yolks. Transfer eggs to an ice bath or cold water immediately after boiling to halt cooking and make peeling easier. Once cooled, peel the eggs carefully and chop them into small, uniform pieces. This ensures a smooth texture in every bite.

Step 2: Cooking the Bacon

While the eggs are boiling, prepare the bacon slices. Use a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. For crispy bacon, cook slices until they turn a deep golden brown, approximately 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Turn occasionally to ensure even crisping. Remove cooked bacon using tongs or a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess fat. Once cooled, crumble bacon into small pieces. The smoky, savory flavor of bacon adds depth to this salad, balancing the freshness of the vegetables.

Step 3: Assembling the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn lettuce, peas, chopped red onion, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and crumbled bacon. Use a large spoon or salad tongs to gently toss the ingredients together, ensuring even distribution of flavors and textures. The key here is gentle tossing to prevent crushing delicate ingredients like lettuce and eggs while ensuring each bite is flavorful.

Step 4: Adding the Mayonnaise and Seasoning

Measure one cup of mayonnaise and add it to the salad mixture. Carefully fold or toss the ingredients to coat everything evenly with the mayonnaise. This creamy dressing binds the salad components together and adds richness. For a lighter version, consider using low-fat or light mayonnaise, or even Greek yogurt if you prefer a tangier, less caloric option. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary—adding a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, or a dash of vinegar can enhance the overall flavor profile.

Step 5: Final Touch and Serving

If preparing the salad ahead of time, it’s best to add the diced tomatoes just before serving. This prevents the salad from becoming watery or soggy. Gently fold in the diced tomatoes, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking down the other ingredients. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chill the dish thoroughly.

Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Serve chilled on a large platter or individual bowls, and enjoy this classic Southern Pea Salad as a refreshing side or a light meal on hot summer days.

Preparation Tips

• Ensure eggs are cooked properly: Overcooked eggs can become rubbery, while undercooked eggs may be unsafe. Use a timer and immediately cool eggs to prevent overcooking.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce, peas, and vegetables greatly enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust mayonnaise quantity: Depending on your preference for creaminess, you can add more or less mayonnaise.
• Chill thoroughly: For optimal taste, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Customize toppings: Add sliced green onions, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or dill), or a splash of hot sauce for variation.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Double the bacon: For extra smoky flavor, cook more bacon and crumble over the top just before serving.
• Use fresh eggs: Freshly boiled eggs yield a better texture and flavor than older eggs.
• Vary the greens: Substitute or mix in other leafy greens like spinach or arugula for a different flavor profile.
• Add crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts or crispy fried onions for added texture.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the salad a day in advance, but add tomatoes last-minute to keep it crisp.

Add-ons

• Chopped celery for extra crunch
• Sliced green onions for a mild onion flavor
• Chopped pickles or relish for tanginess
• Crumbled feta or shredded cheese for added richness
• Hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick

Side Dishes

• Grilled BBQ chicken or ribs
• Fried catfish or other Southern-style fish
• Cornbread or cornbread muffins
• Fresh sliced watermelon or other seasonal fruits
• Sweet tea or lemonade to complement the meal

Improvements and Variations

• Vegan version: Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo and omit eggs, using smoked tofu or tempeh as an alternative protein.
• Low-carb adaptation: Use Greek yogurt or avocado mash instead of mayonnaise for a healthier fat profile.
• Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Herbaceous flavor: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro to elevate the freshness.

Save and Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Due to the mayonnaise and eggs, the salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to prepare in advance, assemble the ingredients without the tomatoes, bacon, or dressing, and add those just before serving. To keep the salad crisp, avoid mixing in the tomatoes until immediately before serving, as they release moisture that can sog up the greens and dressing.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture and flavor, add the tomatoes just before serving. Prepare the rest of the ingredients the day before, store separately, and assemble when ready to eat.

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before mixing. Frozen peas are convenient and retain their sweetness when properly prepared.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, but omit the bacon or substitute with vegetarian bacon or smoked plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version.

How can I make this salad healthier?

Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, add extra greens, and reduce or omit bacon. Incorporating more vegetables like chopped cucumbers or bell peppers can also enhance nutritional value.

Conclusion

This Southern Pea Salad exemplifies the comforting, straightforward flavors cherished in Southern cuisine. Its blend of fresh greens, hearty peas, savory eggs, and crispy bacon creates a symphony of textures and flavors that are both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or quick weekday meals, this dish highlights how simple ingredients can be transformed into a memorable culinary experience. With its heritage rooted in tradition and adaptable to modern dietary preferences, it remains a beloved classic that continues to bring joy across generations. Remember to visit Love With Recipes for more timeless recipes, tips, and culinary inspiration to elevate your home cooking experience.