Peas With Bacon Salad
Shelling peas can be a really daunting task. Let’s face it, it’s a lot of work. But, like anything else home-grown, fresh peas are totally worth the time an effort. As a farm girl, living on a 900 acre fruit and vegetable farm, I have no excuse not to shell them, or pick them myself for that matter. Anthony, Gabrielle and AJ love them and it’s pretty convenient to walk out your back door into the field (or send the kids) and pick some. The joys of farm life!
Peas are in for such a short time during the late spring / early summer in New Jersey. They don’t like the warm weather so it’s best to head to your local farmer’s and grab some while you can. They are perfect to freeze. Just shell and place in a freezer bag. No blanching necessary.
Peas are also perfect to enjoy raw (like my son likes them) or slightly blanched. They are sweet and delicious. This Peas With Bacon Salad is a perfect summer side dish. Well, it’s an anytime of year perfect side dish because it can be made with frozen peas as well. I love making this dish during the spring and summer months because I can utilize the fresh produce in season.
It’s a super simple recipe to throw together. Combine the sweet peas with all the other ingredients and toss with a basic vinaigrette. This recipe is a no fuss side dish that anyone can create.
- 3 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 5 slices of cooked bacon chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes sliced
- 1 garlic clove crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon of pepper
- 1/3 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- Blanch peas in boiling water for 2 minutes.
- Once blanched, place in a bowl of cold ice water to stop cooking process.
- In medium bowl, combine peas, bacon, onion, tomatoes and garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk oil into the vinegar.
- Pour over pea salad and mix together.
- Refrigerate until ready to eat.
So how is your garden growing? Did you grow any peas this year? I would love to hear all about your garden creations. Leave a comment below and let me know your favorite garden dishes.
Enjoy!
