Creamy Bacon Pea Pecan Salad

It’s no surprise to us that sweet peas and crisp bits of bacon are a great combo. After all, they are two opposing tastes and textures that go great together. Now, we won’t deny that a salad can be potentially lackluster if there’s nothing there to jazz it up, which is precisely why we are so excited to bring this unique salad recipe to you! It’s guaranteed to wake up your taste buds and leave everyone at the table arguing over who’s going to get seconds.

Rest assured, you won’t find any mushy, sad peas in this dish! We carefully steamed a frozen bag of them, then cooled them down quickly to keep their gorgeous color and firmness. They taste so good that way! The creamy dressing with toasted pecans for extra crunch can turn just about anyone into a vegetable fan, and the smoky flavor from the bacon sets the whole thing off.

We’re really not kidding when we say it was so hard for us to put this dish down! This would make the perfect side dish to bring to a party or a ninja-like way to get your kiddos to eat something green without batting an eye. We say never underestimate the power of peas – or, in this case, peas and bacon…you can’t go wrong!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Bacon Pea Pecan Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The sweet peas are perfectly complemented by the smoky bacon and crunchy pecans, all brought together by a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium bowl
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 (10 oz.) package frozen garden peas, cooked and cooled
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• Dressing:
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, divided
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and mustard until combined.
2. Add the lemon juice and honey to the mixture and whisk again.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained peas, crumbled bacon, and chopped pecans.
5. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the peas are well-drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
• For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the salad.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to add other ingredients such as diced red onions or shredded cheese for an extra flavor boost. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise or sour cream.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 200
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used. Just make sure to blanch them briefly to maintain their color and texture.

How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and eating this Creamy Bacon Pea Pecan Salad as much as we do! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative variations you come up with!