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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That's Perfect for Any Potluck

A delightful and creamy pasta salad with bacon and peas, perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound small pasta noodles (medium shells, rotini, or farfalle)
For the Add-Ins
  • 1 cup frozen peas thawed
  • 6 slices thick cut bacon cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise creamy base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil optional
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar for tanginess
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar pinch to balance
  • to taste salt essential seasoning
  • to taste garlic powder essential seasoning
  • to taste onion powder essential seasoning
  • to taste black pepper essential seasoning

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Cook thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease and crumble.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of granulated sugar until smooth. Add seasonings to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, thawed peas, and Parmesan cheese. Gently fold together.
  5. Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and gently mix to coat everything thoroughly.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Adjust dressing ingredients to personal taste.

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