Creamy Potato and Pea Salad with Bacon

### **Instructions**

1. **Cook the Potatoes**: Start by boiling the diced potatoes in salted water. Cook them until tender, but not too soft—around 10-12 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly. You want them to be firm enough to hold their shape but soft enough to absorb all the creamy goodness.

2. **Cook the Bacon**: While the potatoes are cooking, fry the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels and crumble it into bite-sized pieces. The crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch and savory flavor to the salad.

3. **Prepare the Dressing**: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Stir together until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. **Assemble the Salad**: Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, add them to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat the potatoes evenly. Then, fold in the peas and crumbled bacon, mixing carefully to distribute the ingredients without mashing the potatoes.

5. **Chill and Serve**: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together. This salad tastes even better after chilling, as the creamy dressing soaks into the potatoes and peas.

6. **Enjoy**: Serve this creamy potato salad alongside grilled meats, at picnics, or as a comforting side to any meal. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors!

### **Why This Salad Will Become a Favorite**

What I love most about this creamy potato and pea salad with bacon is its versatility and the way it brings together simple ingredients to create something absolutely delicious. The creamy dressing is rich and tangy, the bacon gives it that irresistible crispy crunch, and the peas add a burst of sweetness that lightens the dish. It’s one of those salads that’s hearty enough to be the star of the plate, but also works beautifully as a side.

It’s a crowd-pleaser at barbecues, potlucks, or even just as a cozy dinner at home. And the best part? It’s one of those recipes that always seems to taste better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

### **A Few Tips for Customizing Your Potato Salad**

– **Add Fresh Herbs**: For extra flavor, mix in some fresh dill, parsley, or thyme.
– **Go Green**: Toss in some diced cucumbers or celery for added crunch.
– **Make It Spicy**: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to give the salad a bit of heat.
– **Try Different Bacon**: For a twist, try using smoked bacon or turkey bacon for a lighter version.

### **Perfect for Any Occasion**

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or making a comforting meal for your family, this creamy potato and pea salad with bacon will quickly become a favorite. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to impress.

Give it a try next time you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to bring smiles to the table!

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I hope this article perfectly captures the deliciousness of your potato and pea salad with bacon! Let me know if you’d like to adjust anything or add more details!