Home » Elevating the Classic: A Gourmet Homemade Creamy Bacon Pea Salad

Jul 12

Elevating the Classic: A Gourmet Homemade Creamy Bacon Pea Salad

Bacon and pea spring salad | Mark Beevers

As I stood in my sun-drenched kitchen, the aroma of sizzling bacon mingling with fresh herbs, I knew this wasn’t going to be just any pea salad. This was a transformation – a elevation of a humble classic into a gourmet masterpiece that would make even the most discerning palates swoon.

Creamy Bacon Pea Salad Recipe

Ingredients

For this luxurious rendition of Creamy Bacon Pea Salad, we’ll be using:

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen peas (if frozen, thawed)
  • 8 slices of premium thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup aged cheddar cheese, cubed
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onions
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (a mix of chives, dill, and mint)
  • 1/2 cup crème fraîche
  • 2 tablespoons high-quality mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Steps

  1. Begin by crisping the bacon to perfection. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the crème fraîche, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and white wine vinegar until smooth. This will form the base of our lusciously creamy dressing.
  3. Gently fold in the peas, ensuring each vibrant sphere is coated in the velvety dressing.
  4. Add the cubed cheddar cheese and finely diced red onions, stirring carefully to distribute evenly without crushing the delicate peas.
  5. Chop the crispy bacon into bite-sized pieces and add most of it to the salad, reserving some for garnish.
  6. Finely chop the fresh herbs and sprinkle them into the mixture, watching as flecks of green dance through the creamy canvas.
  7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.

A Perfect Pairing

To complement the rich, creamy notes of this salad, I recommend serving it with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc. The wine’s crisp acidity and herbaceous notes will cut through the creaminess and enhance the fresh flavors of the dish.

Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #GourmetPeaSalad. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!