Classic Pea Salad with Bacon and Cheddar
Classic Pea Salad with Bacon and Cheddar is a creamy, savory American side dish that typically features sweet peas, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and red onion tossed in a mayonnaise-based dressing. It's a staple at potlucks, picnics, and barbecues across the United States, especially popular in the Midwest and South.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This salad is generally high in fat and protein due to the bacon, cheese, and creamy dressing, while the peas provide fiber and some carbohydrates. A typical serving contains roughly 250-350 calories, offering a good amount of calcium, vitamin K, and some plant-based protein.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Vitamin A | 450 IU |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Calcium | 220 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Vitamin K | 30 mcg |
| Folate | 60 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it represents the American tradition of hearty, mayonnaise-based salads that are designed to be served cold and hold up well at outdoor gatherings. Nutritionally, the combination of sweet peas with salty bacon and cheese creates a satisfying balance of flavors, while the peas add a surprising boost of fiber and antioxidants to an otherwise indulgent dish.
