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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Side Dish Delight

This Creamy Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer side dish delight, featuring tender pasta, crispy bacon, and sweet peas in a luscious dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Small Pasta Noodles Use al dente, gluten-free works too.
For the Mix-Ins
  • 2 cups Frozen Peas Thawed.
  • 12 oz Thick-Cut Bacon Cooked and chopped.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated.
For the Dressing
  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise Try Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Neutral oil can be used.
  • 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar White wine vinegar is acceptable.
  • 1 tsp Sugar Can be omitted or replaced with honey.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used.
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder Switch with finely chopped onions.
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Adjust for personal spice levels.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • airtight container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Mix-Ins: In a large bowl, combine peas, bacon, and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Add salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, blending until smooth.
  4. Combine Components: Add cooled pasta to the mix-ins and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently until well-coated.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least an hour.
  6. Final Touches Before Serving: Stir before serving and add reserved bacon and dressing if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Best served cold and can be prepped a day ahead.

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