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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad You’ll Crave All Summer Long

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a must-try recipe for summer, featuring peas, bacon, and a rich dressing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 oz Small Pasta Noodles Use any short shape like shells or bowties.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas (thawed) Try substituting with corn for a fun twist.
  • 6 oz Thick Cut Bacon (cooked and chopped) Swap with turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino offers a sharper flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Feel free to use any neutral oil.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar White vinegar makes a suitable swap.
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar Adjust to your taste depending on sweetness preference.
  • 1 tsp Salt Use a lighter hand if relying on salty bacon or cheese.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic offers a bright, fresh flavor.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh diced onion can be a delightful addition.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust based on your preference.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • spatula
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and crumble. Thaw peas in warm water or steam until bright green.
  3. Whisk the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, peas, crumbled bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to mix evenly.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir until everything is coated.
  6. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or serve immediately if short on time.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Reserve some dressing for serving to keep it moist. Avoid over-salting due to the salty bacon and cheese.

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