Spring Pea and Bacon Salad

Name: Spring Pea and Bacon Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spring peas, shelled; 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

I absolutely love making this Spring Pea and Bacon Salad when the weather starts to warm up. The freshness of the peas combined with the crunch of the bacon creates a wonderful combination that I can't resist. It’s the perfect dish to serve at gatherings or as a light meal on a sunny day. I enjoy the time spent preparing it because it allows me to appreciate the seasonal flavors while creating a delicious and vibrant salad that everyone loves.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:46:27.156Z

When I first combined fresh spring peas with crispy bacon, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The sweetness of the peas perfectly complements the salty crunch of the bacon, creating a balanced dish that feels light and hearty at the same time. I’ve shared this salad at picnics and barbecues, and it has become one of everyone's favorites. The vibrant green color is always a hit on the table!

One of my favorite tips is to use freshly cooked bacon for the best flavor and texture. I recommend cooking the bacon until it’s crispy, then letting it cool down slightly before tossing it into the salad. This way, you get the most out of its smoky essence while maintaining the freshness of the peas. I also love adding a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the brightness of the dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors that celebrate spring
A delightful combination of crispy, salty bacon and sweet peas
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights or gatherings

The Role of Ingredients

The fresh spring peas are the star of this salad, providing a sweet and tender taste that perfectly complements the savory notes of the crumbled bacon. Selecting the highest quality peas is key; look for vibrant green peas that are firm and plump. If fresh peas are not available, frozen peas can be used in a pinch, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to maintain the salad's texture.

Bacon adds a crucial crunch and depth of flavor. Opt for high-quality, thick-cut bacon for a more robust taste. Cook it until it's crispy—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes in a skillet over medium heat. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon can also work; just note that it won’t deliver the same richness.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing is simple yet pivotal, enhancing the salad's overall taste. When whisking together the olive oil and lemon juice, aim for a ratio of roughly 3:1 for oil to acid; this will yield a balanced dressing that isn’t too oily. Feel free to add a touch of Dijon mustard for an extra flavor dimension, which will also help emulsify the dressing for a creamier texture.

When dressing the salad, do so just before serving to prevent the salad components from becoming soggy. Toss gently to coat without bruising the ingredients, preserving the peas’ delicate texture and the tomatoes' integrity. You want each element to shine, so a light hand is crucial.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving this salad is an opportunity to elevate the dining experience. For gatherings, consider serving it on a large platter, garnished with extra parsley and feta for visual appeal. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light lunch. It’s also delightful alongside crusty bread to soak up any residual dressing.

If you're preparing this salad in advance, components can be stored separately to maintain freshness. The peas and bacon can last up to two days in the fridge when stored properly. Just remember to add the dressing and feta right before serving. This will ensure that everything remains crisp and vibrant, preventing a wilted salad.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Spring Pea and Bacon Salad:

Ingredients

4 cups fresh spring peas, shelled
6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients to bring the salad together!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Spring Pea and Bacon Salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shelled peas, crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly. Finally, sprinkle the feta cheese on top.

Serve your salad immediately for the freshest flavor!

Pro Tips

For the best results, use fresh peas when they are in season. You can also substitute the bacon with crispy tofu for a vegetarian version of this salad.

Variations to Explore

Consider adding other seasonal vegetables to your Spring Pea and Bacon Salad. Sliced radishes or thinly shaved asparagus can provide additional crunch and color. You can also experiment with the type of cheese; for a creamier texture, try using goat cheese instead of feta, which will give the dish a different flavor profile.

For a protein boost, feel free to introduce grilled chicken or shrimp. These additions can make the salad a heartier meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. Just ensure any added proteins are seasoned well—this is crucial for balancing the flavors within the salad.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the salad appears too dry after dressing, a splash of additional lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil can help moisten it without overwhelming the flavors. Avoid over-dressing, as it can mask the salad's freshness. If you find yourself with leftover dressing, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Should you accidentally overcook the bacon, one way to salvage the salad is to ensure that other textures are crisp and fresh. Using very fresh, vibrant vegetables can offset the bacon's crunchiness, maintaining a pleasant overall experience in the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and combine them right before serving.

→ What can I add to this salad?

Feel free to customize it with ingredients like avocado, bell peppers, or even some nuts for an added crunch.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, but the peas might lose some freshness.

→ Can I use frozen peas?

Yes, frozen peas are a great alternative! Just thaw them and make sure to pat them dry before tossing them into the salad.