Imagine a dish that combines the smoky richness of crispy bacon, the earthy goodness of black-eyed peas, and a tangy vinegar kick that will transport your senses to a Southern kitchen. This Warm Bacon Black Eyed Pea Salad is not just a side dish—it's a flavor explosion that turns simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to elevate your meal with this irresistible recipe that's both comforting and surprisingly elegant!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by placing a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the bacon becomes crisp and renders its fat, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, reserving the bacon drippings in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with bacon drippings, add diced red bell pepper and red onion. Sauté the vegetables for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly softened but still retain a slight crunch.
- Add the drained and rinsed black-eyed peas to the skillet. Stir gently to combine with the vegetables and warm through for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar, stirring to deglaze the pan and incorporate all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Return the crispy bacon pieces to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and transfer the warm salad to a serving dish. Serve immediately while still warm, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Tips
- Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness
- Don't drain all the bacon fat—it's the secret weapon for adding depth to your salad
- Make sure to sauté vegetables quickly to maintain their crunch
- Use fresh cracked black pepper for a more robust taste
- Serve immediately while the salad is still warm to enjoy the best texture and flavor
- For a vegetarian twist, replace bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke
- This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone light lunch
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
