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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That Wows at Every Potluck Gathering

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that combines crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a creamy dressing for a delightful dish perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz Small Pasta Noodles Choose any small pasta shape like elbow or shell.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Remember to thaw them first.
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon Cook until golden and crumble.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Add more if desired.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Avocado oil is a suitable alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Consider white vinegar if needed.
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar Honey or agave works as a natural alternative.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh minced onion can be used.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to preference.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium skillet
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt and stir in pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the Peas and Bacon - Cook bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to paper towel to drain and crumble. Thaw peas in warm water or run under cold water.
  3. Step 3: Whisk the Dressing - In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until smooth, then add sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until creamy.
  4. Step 4: Mix the Salad Ingredients - In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, thawed peas, crispy bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Gently fold together with a spatula until well-distributed.
  5. Step 5: Combine with Dressing - Pour dressing over pasta mixture and stir to coat evenly. Admire the blend of colors and textures.
  6. Step 6: Chill and Serve - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to meld flavors. Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chill the pasta salad for at least 1 hour for enhanced flavors. Taste the dressing before combining and adjust seasoning if necessary. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.

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