Description
Creamy Southern Pea Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish combining tender southern peas, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and melty plant-based cheese, all coated in a tangy, creamy dressing with natural apple cider vinegar. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a flavorful weeknight side, this salad delivers a harmonious blend of smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors with a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups southern peas (cooked or canned, well drained)
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese
- 1/2 cup plant-based mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp natural apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp natural granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 1/2 tsp natural gelling agent
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Southern Peas: Rinse and drain your canned or cooked fresh southern peas thoroughly to remove excess liquid and ensure a creamy yet firm salad texture.
- Crisp the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until perfectly crispy. Allow to cool slightly before chopping into bite-sized pieces for a smoky crunch.
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely dice red onion and celery to add crispness and mild sharpness that balance the salad’s flavors and texture.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together plant-based mayonnaise, natural apple cider vinegar, natural granulated sugar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir in the natural gelling agent to keep the dressing smooth and creamy without separating.
- Combine All Ingredients: Gently fold the drained southern peas, crispy smoked turkey bacon, diced vegetables, and shredded plant-based cheese into the dressing. Mix carefully to maintain the peas intact while evenly coating everything.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled for a refreshing and comforting experience.
Notes
- Use fresh southern peas or well-drained canned peas for the best texture.
- Do not rush cooking the smoked turkey bacon to achieve a crispy texture.
- Chilling the salad enhances flavor infusion and creaminess.
- Adjust the amount of natural gelling agent to achieve preferred dressing consistency.
- Season gradually with salt and pepper to get the perfect taste balance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No cooking method required except skillet frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: southern pea salad, creamy pea salad, plant-based salad, smoked turkey bacon salad, tangy pea salad, southern side dish
