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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That's Perfect for Every Potluck

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that adds joy to any potluck.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 2 cups Small Pasta Noodles Use medium-sized pasta like farfalle or rotini for ideal texture.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Thaw before adding for the best flavor.
For the Flavor Boost
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon Cook and crumble for a great crunch.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Switch to pecorino romano for a sharper flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil can also be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Lemon juice or white wine vinegar work well.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Adjust or omit to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced can be substituted.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh minced can be substituted.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • Medium Bowl
  • Spatula
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Steps to Make Creamy Pasta Salad
  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Thaw the frozen peas and cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Crumble the bacon once cooked.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan. Fold together and pour dressing over the mixture.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow the creamy pasta salad to chill for optimal flavor. Experiment with add-ins to suit preferences.

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