Easy Pea Salad with Cheese and Turkey Bacon

There’s something beautifully nostalgic about creamy salads, especially the kind that show up at potlucks, picnics, and family dinners. This creamy pea salad with cheese and turkey bacon is exactly that kind of dish—the one you remember from childhood get-togethers, the one that always disappears first from the buffet table, and the one you go back for seconds and thirds of. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, and it brings the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, smoky, and sweet to the table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for an easy side dish to go with your weeknight dinner, this salad checks every box.

What makes this salad really special is its mix of textures and flavors. The sweet peas offer a pop of freshness, while the crispy turkey bacon adds that satisfying crunch and smoky depth. The cheeses—sharp cheddar and stretchy mozzarella—melt into the creamy dressing, giving it richness and tang. Red onions bring in just the right amount of bite, and everything is brought together with a simple, velvety mayo-based dressing that soaks into the salad as it chills.

This recipe is near and dear to my heart because it’s one I’ve adapted from my childhood. My mother used to make a version of this with regular bacon and sometimes even added hard-boiled eggs. I’ve swapped in turkey bacon to keep it halal and made a few other tweaks over the years, but it still brings back the same warm feelings every time I make it. It’s perfect for Ramadan iftar spreads, Eid gatherings, summer BBQs, or even just a cozy weekend meal at home. Plus, it’s a total win with both kids and adults, which means less stress when planning meals.

If you’re looking for something easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to please a crowd, this creamy pea salad is it. Let’s dive into why this dish needs to be in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Easy pea salad Recipe

There are so many reasons why this creamy pea salad should be your next go-to side dish, but let’s start with the most obvious: it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to be an expert in the kitchen, and you won’t need any complicated tools or ingredients. The whole thing comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute guests.

One of the standout features of this salad is its balance of flavors. The peas are naturally sweet and juicy, which is the perfect contrast to the salty crispness of the turkey bacon. Then there’s the cheese—oh, the cheese! Shredded cheddar gives the salad a sharp bite, while mozzarella melts in with the dressing to create that irresistible creaminess. The red onions add a fresh crunch and a tiny bit of zing, which rounds everything out beautifully.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s incredibly customizable. You can add in diced cucumbers for extra crunch, swap out the mayo for Greek yogurt if you want a lighter version, or even toss in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten things up. It’s the kind of recipe that works with what you’ve got in the fridge.

On top of all that, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters love it because it’s familiar, comforting, and super satisfying. It’s also make-ahead friendly, which means you can prepare it the night before and let all the flavors meld in the fridge. The result is a chilled, creamy salad that’s absolutely packed with taste.

Finally, because we’re using halal-friendly turkey bacon and keeping things simple and wholesome, this dish is a safe bet for nearly every guest. It’s hearty enough to hold its own alongside grilled meats, rice dishes, or sandwiches, but also light enough to serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding your family, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this creamy pea salad is going to be a recipe you come back to again and again.

Health Benefits

At first glance, a creamy salad might not strike you as the healthiest option—but don’t be fooled. This dish actually offers several surprising health benefits, especially when you choose quality ingredients and mindful portions.

Let’s start with the peas, which are the star of the show. Green peas are not only naturally sweet and delicious, but they’re also packed with nutrients. They’re a great source of plant-based protein, making this dish more filling and satisfying. Peas are also high in fiber, which helps with digestion and supports stable blood sugar levels. In addition, they provide key vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin K, and several B vitamins, along with antioxidants that help fight inflammation.

Next up is the turkey bacon. Compared to traditional pork bacon, turkey bacon is a leaner protein source with less saturated fat. It still delivers that smoky, crispy satisfaction, but in a way that’s lighter and more heart-friendly. Plus, by choosing a halal-certified brand, you can be sure you’re working with ingredients that align with your dietary needs and values.

The red onions aren’t just there for flavor—they also bring a host of health benefits. They’re rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, which are known to support heart health and may help reduce inflammation. They also contain quercetin, a compound that has been linked to immune support.

Now, let’s talk about the cheese. While cheese does add fat and calories to the dish, it also provides valuable nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamin D. Cheddar and mozzarella both offer these benefits, and when used in moderation, they can absolutely be part of a balanced diet.

Even the mayonnaise, which often gets a bad rap, can be a reasonable ingredient when chosen wisely. Many mayo brands now offer versions made with avocado oil or olive oil, which are healthier fat sources. And if you’re watching your calories or fat intake, you can easily swap in a lighter version or even use part Greek yogurt.

Overall, this creamy pea salad provides a nice blend of macronutrients—carbs, protein, and fat—along with fiber and a variety of vitamins and minerals. It’s a comfort food classic that doesn’t completely derail your health goals, especially when enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-rounded meal.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This salad is a breeze to put together, which is one of the many reasons it’s a favorite in my kitchen. You’ll spend most of your time just combining ingredients and letting the fridge do the work.

Total Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: At least 4 hours (overnight is best)
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 to 8 servings
Calories per Serving: Approximately 310 calories
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g
Sodium: 620mg

These values may vary slightly depending on the brand of ingredients you use, especially the mayonnaise and turkey bacon. To keep things on the lighter side, you can use a reduced-fat mayo or mix it with Greek yogurt.

This dish serves generously, making it ideal for sharing or storing for later. If you’re prepping this as a side for a dinner party or large family meal, it’s easy to double or even triple the recipe.

Ingredients List

To make this creamy pea salad, you’ll need a handful of everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays an important role in the final flavor and texture of the dish.

Frozen Peas (16 oz):
Make sure they’re thawed and well-drained. Peas bring that natural sweetness and a fresh, vibrant bite. You can use petite peas if you prefer a more delicate texture.

Turkey Bacon (6 strips, cooked and chopped):
This gives the salad its smoky, crispy edge without using pork. Choose a halal-certified brand and cook until crispy before chopping.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese (½ cup):
Adds sharpness and richness. Use freshly shredded cheese if possible—it melts better and tastes fresher than pre-shredded.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup):
Brings a milder creaminess that balances out the stronger cheddar. It also adds that lovely stretchy texture when mixed with the creamy dressing.

Red Onion (½ cup, diced):
Provides a crunchy contrast and a pop of flavor. If you’re sensitive to raw onion, soak the diced pieces in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the bite.

Mayonnaise (1 cup):
The base of the creamy dressing. Use full-fat or a healthier version like olive oil-based mayo. For a lighter take, you can substitute part of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt.

Salt and Pepper (to taste):
Seasoning is key. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust as needed after everything is mixed.

That’s it! Seven simple ingredients, each with a purpose. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how easily you can adjust it to fit your preferences.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This creamy pea salad recipe is as simple as it gets, but following the right steps ensures the best flavor and texture. Let’s walk through the entire process from start to finish, with helpful tips along the way to make sure it turns out perfect every single time.

Step 1: Prepare the Frozen Peas

Start by removing your frozen peas from the freezer. Place them in a colander and run cool water over them to thaw quickly. Alternatively, you can leave them in the fridge overnight to thaw gradually.

Once thawed, make sure to drain them thoroughly. Excess water can make your salad watery and dull the flavors. After draining, you can even pat them dry gently with a clean towel or paper towels for extra assurance.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Next, it’s time to cook your turkey bacon. You can do this in a skillet over medium heat, flipping every few minutes until the strips are crisp and golden. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes depending on the thickness of your turkey bacon.

Place the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any remaining grease, then allow it to cool. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small bite-sized pieces. You want the bacon to be crisp enough that it holds its crunch after mixing into the creamy dressing.

Step 3: Dice the Red Onion

Dice your red onion into small, uniform pieces. The onion adds a sharp contrast to the creamy salad, but you want the pieces to be small so they don’t overwhelm the other ingredients. If you find raw onion too strong, you can mellow it out by soaking the diced pieces in a bowl of ice water for about 10 minutes, then draining thoroughly before adding to the salad.

Step 4: Shred the Cheeses

Use a grater to freshly shred your cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and taste. Freshly shredded cheese will melt better into the creamy base and provide a smoother mouthfeel.

Combine ½ cup of cheddar and ½ cup of mozzarella in a small bowl and set aside.

Step 5: Combine the Main Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your thawed peas, diced red onions, chopped turkey bacon, and shredded cheeses. Use a large spoon or silicone spatula to gently mix these ingredients together. You want to coat the peas without mashing them.

Step 6: Add the Dressing

Add 1 cup of mayonnaise directly to the bowl with the mixed ingredients. Start by adding about ¾ of the cup, mix well, and see if you need more. You want everything to be coated in a creamy layer, but not drowning.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Start with a small pinch of each, mix, then taste and adjust. Some turkey bacon and cheeses are salty on their own, so you may need less added salt than you think.

If you’d like to customize the dressing, this is also the point where you could mix in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lemon juice, or even a dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika for added depth.

Step 7: Chill the Salad

Once everything is combined and seasoned to your liking, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. This is an important step, so don’t skip it. The salad needs to chill for at least 4 hours, though overnight is even better.

During this time, the flavors meld together, the dressing thickens slightly, and the peas absorb all the delicious seasonings. Chilling also improves the texture, so you end up with a creamy, well-balanced salad instead of something overly loose or runny.

Step 8: Stir and Serve

Before serving, give the salad a good stir. This helps reincorporate any dressing that may have settled at the bottom and ensures a consistent flavor in every bite.

Spoon into a serving bowl or onto individual plates, and serve cold. You can garnish with a bit of fresh chopped parsley or a few extra crumbles of turkey bacon if you want to dress it up for presentation.

This recipe doesn’t require any fancy plating—just a big bowl and some hungry guests.

How to Serve

One of the best things about this creamy pea salad is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. Whether you’re adding it to a larger meal or enjoying it on its own as a light lunch, there are plenty of great ways to enjoy it.

Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, burgers, or BBQ meats. The cool, creamy texture complements anything hot and smoky, making it a favorite for summer gatherings and weekend cookouts.

If you’re hosting a brunch or light lunch, this salad pairs beautifully with egg dishes like frittatas, quiches, or even a simple scrambled egg and toast platter. It adds color, freshness, and creaminess without overpowering other dishes.

For a more casual presentation, scoop the salad onto a bed of greens like romaine or arugula for an instant cold platter. This gives it a nice crunch and makes it feel even more like a full salad rather than just a side.

Another great option is to use this salad as a filling for lettuce wraps. Just spoon a few tablespoons into large romaine leaves or butter lettuce cups for a low-carb appetizer or light meal.

If you’re serving a larger spread, try placing the pea salad in a small bowl alongside other cold salads like pasta salad, potato salad, and couscous. The variety of textures and flavors will make your table look (and taste) amazing.

And of course, you can’t go wrong by serving it simply in a large bowl with a spoon on the side and letting people help themselves. It holds up well on buffet tables and picnic spreads, especially if kept chilled over a bowl of ice.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy pea salad has a cool, rich, and slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re building a full meal around it or just looking for the right main dish to accompany it, here are some pairing ideas that work beautifully.

Pair it with grilled or roasted halal chicken—like lemon herb chicken thighs, garlic grilled drumsticks, or a whole roasted chicken rubbed with spices. The warm, savory flavors of the chicken contrast wonderfully with the cool creaminess of the salad.

If you’re making burgers or sandwiches, this salad makes the perfect side. Try it alongside halal turkey burgers, grilled veggie burgers, or even a classic chicken sandwich. The smoky turkey bacon in the salad echoes the grilled notes in the meat for a cohesive meal.

Looking for a lighter pairing? Serve it with a simple grain dish, like herbed couscous or a rice pilaf. The freshness of the peas balances the starchiness of the grains, and the creamy dressing acts almost like a built-in sauce.

For an international twist, pair the salad with Middle Eastern kebabs or kofta. Chicken kofta skewers or lamb kebabs provide bold spice and flavor, and the salad helps cool the palate and refresh the taste buds between bites.

You can also make this part of a cold lunch spread with other mezze-style dishes like hummus, pita bread, olives, and roasted vegetables. The variety of textures and temperatures keeps every bite interesting.

And if you’re planning a festive or family-style meal, don’t hesitate to pair this salad with rice and curry dishes. The salad adds a cool contrast to bold, spicy flavors and helps round out the meal.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the most convenient things about this creamy pea salad is how well it holds up in the fridge. In fact, it actually gets better after a few hours because the flavors have more time to meld. That makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days, special gatherings, or weekly meal prep.

How to Store Leftovers

Once your salad is prepared and chilled, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavor and creamy texture. Before serving, give it a quick stir to reincorporate any dressing that might have settled at the bottom. You can also add a fresh sprinkle of turkey bacon or cheese if you want to revive the flavors a bit.

If the salad seems a little dry after being in the fridge, just stir in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash of milk or yogurt to loosen it up.

Can You Freeze Pea Salad?

While many cooked and raw foods freeze beautifully, this salad is not ideal for freezing. The mayonnaise-based dressing doesn’t hold up well to freezing temperatures—it can separate and become grainy or watery once thawed. Additionally, frozen and thawed cheese often loses its texture, becoming rubbery or clumpy, which doesn’t make for the most appetizing salad.

If you really need to freeze it, your best bet would be to freeze only the peas, bacon, and cheese components separately—without the mayo and onion. Then you can thaw and assemble the salad fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating Instructions

Since this salad is meant to be served cold, reheating is not necessary and actually not recommended. However, if you’ve added it to a larger meal with warm elements, like stuffing it in a wrap or using it in a grain bowl, you can briefly warm the dish slightly. But again, for the best flavor and texture, it’s best enjoyed straight from the fridge.

The key here is temperature control. If you’re serving this at a party or picnic, keep the salad chilled until ready to serve. You can place the serving bowl in a larger bowl filled with ice to keep it cold during gatherings, especially in warmer weather.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is quite simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Let’s look at these in more detail so you can avoid them and make your creamy pea salad turn out perfect every single time.

Not Draining the Peas Properly

This is the number one mistake. If you don’t drain the thawed peas thoroughly, the excess water can make your dressing runny and bland. Always pat your peas dry with a paper towel after thawing to get rid of as much moisture as possible.

Using Low-Quality Mayonnaise

Since the mayo is a major part of the flavor and texture, using a poor-quality mayonnaise can really bring down the dish. Choose a full-fat, high-quality brand for the creamiest result. If you’re watching calories or fat, opt for a light version or blend in some Greek yogurt—but still use a flavorful base.

Overmixing the Salad

Be gentle when combining the ingredients. Overmixing can cause the peas to become mushy, and the salad may lose its appealing texture. Use a soft spatula or large spoon and fold the ingredients together rather than stirring aggressively.

Not Letting It Chill Long Enough

This salad needs time in the fridge to reach its full potential. If you rush it and serve it too soon, the flavors won’t have blended properly. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better.

Adding Too Much Salt Too Soon

With salty ingredients like turkey bacon and cheese already in the mix, it’s important to taste before adding additional salt. Start small and adjust at the end if needed. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in.

Pro Tips

If you want to take your creamy pea salad from good to unforgettable, these pro tips will help you master every step. They’re simple tweaks and tricks that really make a difference.

Tip 1: Use Petite Peas for a More Delicate Texture

Regular green peas work well, but if you want a more tender bite, opt for petite peas. They’re sweeter, softer, and have a finer texture, which can make the salad feel more elegant.

Tip 2: Crisp the Turkey Bacon Thoroughly

Make sure the turkey bacon is fully crisped before adding it to the salad. It adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts the creamy dressing. If it’s still a bit soft, it may lose its texture once mixed and chilled.

Tip 3: Blend Mayonnaise with Greek Yogurt

For a slightly tangier, lighter dressing, mix ¾ cup mayonnaise with ¼ cup Greek yogurt. This adds protein and reduces some of the fat without compromising the creaminess. It also adds a bit of tang that complements the sweetness of the peas.

Tip 4: Add Fresh Herbs for Brightness

If you want to give the salad a little freshness, toss in some chopped fresh parsley, dill, or chives. They lighten the flavor and add beautiful color, making the salad even more visually appealing.

Tip 5: Chill in a Shallow Container for Faster Cooling

If you’re short on time, spread the salad out in a shallow dish before chilling. This helps it cool faster and ensures the flavors meld more evenly. Then, just transfer it to a serving bowl before your event.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?

While canned peas can work in a pinch, they tend to be softer and more prone to getting mushy. Frozen peas are preferred because they retain a firmer texture and a fresher taste after thawing.

What kind of turkey bacon is best?

Look for halal-certified turkey bacon that is thin and crisps up well. Brands vary in saltiness and flavor, so feel free to try a few until you find one you love. Cooking it until crispy is key to great texture.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes! You can easily make a dairy-free version by omitting the cheese or using plant-based cheese alternatives. The salad will still be delicious and creamy with the mayo and other ingredients.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, it’s even better when made the day before. Just store it covered in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving.

Is there a way to make this salad healthier?

Absolutely. You can substitute Greek yogurt for part or all of the mayonnaise, use low-fat cheese, and even add extra veggies like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for more nutrients and crunch.

Can I serve this salad warm?

This is definitely a cold salad. While you could technically warm it, the mayo and cheese mixture won’t have the same creamy appeal. It’s best served chilled straight from the fridge.

How do I keep it from getting watery?

Drain the peas thoroughly and make sure any other added ingredients (like cucumbers or fresh herbs) are also dry. Use full-fat mayo for a thicker, more stable dressing.

What can I serve this with?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, rice dishes, or even as part of a picnic spread. It’s versatile enough to go with almost any meal.

Can I add eggs to this salad?

Yes, hard-boiled eggs are a classic addition to pea salad. They add protein and richness. Just chop them finely and mix in with the other ingredients.

What if I don’t have red onion?

You can use green onions or shallots instead. Both will offer a milder flavor and a bit of crunch without overpowering the salad.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This creamy pea salad with cheese and turkey bacon is one of those timeless recipes that hits every note—sweet, salty, creamy, and crisp—all in one simple bowl. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering, bringing it to a picnic, or just adding a fresh and easy side to a weeknight dinner, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s made with just a few everyday ingredients, but the result is something that feels special every time you serve it.

What makes this salad extra special is how easily it fits into so many occasions. It’s light but filling, simple yet flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. You can make it ahead, tweak it to your tastes, and count on it to disappear fast from the table. And with the use of halal turkey bacon, it’s a dish you can confidently share with friends and family no matter their dietary needs.

Now that you’ve seen how easy and satisfying this salad is to make, I hope you’ll give it a try. Trust me—it’ll quickly become one of your favorite side dishes. If you do make it, I’d absolutely love to hear how it turns out. Did you add any fun twists? Serve it with something unexpected? Share your version with me, leave a comment, or tag your creation online. Seeing your homemade versions brings me so much joy.

So go ahead—grab those peas, crisp up some turkey bacon, and whip up this creamy, dreamy salad. It’s waiting to become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine.

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