Name: Creamy English Pea Salad with Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (2 ounces; about 1/3 cup sliced); 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar, divided; 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water; 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 pound (453 g) fresh sweet peas or thawed frozen peas (about 3 1/4 cups); 1/3 cup (75 ml) mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons (43 ml) sour cream; 1 clove garlic, finely grated; 1 teaspoon honey; 3/4 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt, plus more for cooking water; for table salt, use half as much by volume; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste; 1 tablespoon thinly sliced chives; 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill; 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (from 1 small lemon); 3 ounces (85 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 3/4 cup)

Creamy English Pea Salad with Bacon

This creamy pea salad with bacon, cheddar, and herbs is an easy, make-ahead side for Easter, potlucks, and spring picnics.

25 min total 10 min prep 15 min cook 4 424 cal

Instructions

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1 In a small bowl, add red onion, 1 tablespoon vinegar, and water and toss to combine; let sit at room temperature until ready to use, at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate up to 24 hours. When ready to use, drain and discard liquid.
2 In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until fat is rendered and bacon is crisp, 12 to 15 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate.
3 Meanwhile, if using fresh peas, bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add fresh peas; cook until tender-crisp and bright green, about 1 minute. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool; drain well and pat dry with paper towels. If using frozen peas, ensure they are fully thawed, drained, and patted dry. (Frozen peas do not need to be blanched.)
4 In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, honey, salt, pepper, and remaining 1 tablespoon vinegar until smooth. Stir in chives, dill, and lemon zest.
5 Add peas, cheddar, and drained onions to bowl; fold gently until evenly coated. Stir in bacon just before serving.