Creamy, crunchy, smoky, and packed with protein—this Bacon Pea Salad is a quick side dish or light meal that works perfectly for potlucks, meal prep, or high-protein snacking.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10–15 minutes
Total Time
20–25 minutes
Servings
6 servings
Ingredients
Main Salad
- 4 cups green peas (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 6–8 slices turkey bacon or lean beef bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (high-protein base)
- ¼ cup light mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (reduced-fat or regular)
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds tang)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Cook bacon in a skillet or oven until crispy.
- Drain excess fat on paper towels.
- Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Peas
- If using frozen peas, thaw them by running under warm water or letting them sit at room temperature.
- Drain well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Add peas, bacon, shredded cheese, red onion, celery, and parsley into the bowl.
- Gently fold everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes for best flavor.
- Serve cold as a side dish or high-protein snack.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Stir before serving as the dressing may settle slightly.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: ~230–280
- Protein: ~18–22g
- Carbohydrates: ~12g
- Fat: ~12–15g
- Fiber: ~3–4g
Tips & Variations
- Add hard-boiled eggs for extra protein boost 🥚
- Swap cheddar with feta for a tangy twist 🧀
- Add chopped pickles for extra crunch 🥒
- Use smoked turkey bacon for a lighter option
- For a sweeter balance, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup (optional)
