Irresistible Cracked Out Pea Salad Recipe for Summer Fun

Cracked Out Pea Salad is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Imagine tender peas mingling with creamy dressing and crunchy elements, creating a dish that dances on your taste buds.

This salad brings back fond memories of summer barbecues, where everyone gathered around the grill with laughter and stories. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have you smiling with every bite.

Ingredients for Cracked Out Pea Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Frozen Peas: Use about 3 cups of thawed frozen peas for their sweet flavor and bright color.
• Mayonnaise: Choose your favorite brand; it gives the salad its creamy texture.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess that balances out the richness of the mayonnaise.
• Green Onions: Sliced thinly to provide a fresh zing that elevates the salad’s flavor profile.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds depth and a savory element that’s hard to resist.
• Crispy Fried Onions: For crunch! These little gems add an irresistible texture contrast.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cracked Out Pea Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Peas

Start by thawing about 3 cups of frozen peas in a colander under running water or let them sit at room temperature until soft. Drain well to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine half a cup of mayonnaise with half a cup of sour cream. Stir until smooth; this will be your creamy dressing that binds everything together.

Step 3: Add Fresh Ingredients

Chop about four green onions finely and fold them into your creamy mixture along with the thawed peas. This adds freshness and depth to your salad.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese

Next, add one cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the mix. Gently fold until all ingredients are coated in the creamy goodness.

Step 5: Crunch It Up

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle in one cup of crispy fried onions and gently mix them in; they’ll provide that delightful crunch we all love.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled as a side or light meal, and enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping all your ingredients, then combine the peas, chicken, and dressing in a large bowl. Mix everything gently to avoid crushing the peas while ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add some crispy chickpeas for a plant-based twist. You can also play with seasonings like dill or toss in some crunchy nuts for extra texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, give it a gentle stir and add a touch more dressing if needed.

It was a sunny Saturday when my friends gathered for a potluck. I brought this Cracked Out Pea Salad, and let’s just say it disappeared faster than I could say “seconds.” The compliments kept pouring in!

FAQs:

What ingredients are in Cracked Out Pea Salad?

Cracked Out Pea Salad features a delightful combination of fresh peas, creamy dressing, and crunchy vegetables. Key ingredients include green peas, diced chicken or turkey, chopped onions, and bell peppers. For added flavor, you can use a tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings. This salad is not only vibrant but also packed with protein and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a light meal or side dish.

How can I make Cracked Out Pea Salad vegan-friendly?

To make Cracked Out Pea Salad vegan-friendly, simply replace the chicken or turkey with plant-based alternatives like chickpeas or tofu. Use a vegan mayonnaise instead of regular mayonnaise to maintain creaminess while keeping it plant-based. You can also enhance the salad with additional vegetables such as cucumbers or avocado for added texture and flavor. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious version of this classic salad.

How should I store leftover Cracked Out Pea Salad?

Leftover Cracked Out Pea Salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for about 3 to 5 days. To keep the salad’s flavors intact, consider adding any crunchy toppings just before serving. If the salad thickens after sitting in the fridge, you can soften it by stirring in a little extra dressing or a splash of broth before enjoying it again.

Can I substitute other proteins in Cracked Out Pea Salad?

Yes! You can easily substitute other proteins in Cracked Out Pea Salad to suit your taste preferences. Instead of chicken or turkey, consider using diced beef or lamb for a richer flavor profile. For a lighter option, shredded rotisserie chicken works well too. Alternatively, if you’re looking for vegetarian options, beans such as kidney beans or black beans can provide both protein and texture without compromising taste.

Conclusion for Cracked Out Pea Salad:

In summary, Cracked Out Pea Salad is an easy-to-make dish that combines fresh ingredients with delightful flavors. By using alternatives like chicken or plant-based proteins and avoiding ingredients like pork and alcohol, this salad caters to various dietary preferences. With its vibrant colors and satisfying crunch, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish or side salad, enjoy this nutritious recipe that everyone will love!

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Cracked Out Pea Salad

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Cracked Out Pea Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that combines sweet peas, creamy dressing, and crunchy fried onions for a delightful experience. Perfect for potlucks or casual weeknight dinners, this easy-to-make salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with taste. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, making it a guaranteed favorite at any gathering.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups frozen peas, thawed
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crispy fried onions

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Instructions

1. Thaw the peas in a colander under running water or at room temperature. Drain well.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
3. Fold in the green onions and thawed peas into the creamy mixture.
4. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and gently combine.
5. Stir in the crispy fried onions for crunch.
6. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg