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Creamy Pasta Salad

Deliciously Creamy Pasta Salad for Every Gathering

Enjoy this Creamy Pasta Salad packed with crispy bacon and sweet peas, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Small pasta noodles Opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Mix-Ins
  • 1 cup Peas Frozen peas are preferred.
  • 6 slices Thick-cut bacon Turkey bacon can be used.
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can lighten it up.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil Any neutral oil works as well.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar White wine vinegar can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Taste and modify as needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used instead.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Fresh onions can be replaced for extra flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper Feel free to adjust.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Peas and Bacon: Thaw peas in warm water for 5 minutes. In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Crumble bacon and set aside.
  3. Combine the Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and parmesan cheese. Gently toss to mix.
  4. Make the Creamy Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour dressing over pasta mixture and stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  6. Chill and Serve: Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 520mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chill for at least an hour before serving to enhance flavor. Rinse pasta under cold water to prevent mushiness.

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