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Layered Pea Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 57 reviews

This refreshing Layered Pea Salad is a delightful combination of crisp iceberg lettuce, creamy dressing, sweet peas, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory bacon bits. Perfect as a make-ahead side dish for potlucks or family dinners, it gets better after chilling overnight as the flavors meld into a creamy, crunchy, and flavorful salad.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing and Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup Creamy salad dressing (such as Miracle Whip)
  • 2 tbsp White sugar
  • 15 oz Cans baby peas, drained
  • ½ cup Finely chopped green bell pepper (Optional)

Layers

  • 1 Head iceberg lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar cheese
  • Bacon bits (quantity as desired, approximately ½ cup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing mixture: In a large salad bowl or a 9×13-inch glass baking dish, combine the creamy salad dressing and white sugar, stirring thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved to create a sweet, creamy base for the salad.
  2. Add peas and bell pepper: Gently fold the drained baby peas and finely chopped green bell pepper (if using) into the dressing mixture, ensuring even distribution without mashing the peas.
  3. Form the pea layer: Spread the pea and dressing mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating a uniform layer that will infuse the salad with flavor.
  4. Add the lettuce layer: Carefully spread the torn iceberg lettuce over the pea mixture, making sure the layer is even to add crispness and freshness to the salad.
  5. Sprinkle the cheese: Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese over the lettuce layer to add a rich and tangy flavor component.
  6. Top with bacon bits: Finish the layering by sprinkling a generous amount of bacon bits over the cheese, adding a smoky and savory crunch to the salad.
  7. Chill the salad: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the salad to set.

Notes

  • For best results, allow the salad to chill overnight to enhance flavor and texture.
  • You can customize by adding chopped red onions or celery for extra crunch.
  • Use real bacon bits or cooked crispy bacon pieces according to preference.
  • If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the creamy salad dressing with Greek yogurt mixed with a little honey or mustard.
  • Ensure peas are well drained to avoid a watery salad.

Keywords: Layered pea salad, picnic salad, make-ahead salad, creamy salad, bacon bits salad, cheddar cheese salad, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/layered-pea-salad-recipe/