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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Twist with Peas and Bacon

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This Creamy Pasta Salad, featuring peas and bacon, is a delightful and easy side dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Small Pasta Noodles Substitution: Any small-shaped pasta like macaroni or shells.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas (thawed) Substitution: Corn can easily be substituted for a different flavor.
  • 6 oz Thick Cut Bacon (cooked and chopped) Prep Note: Make sure your bacon is crispy for the best texture.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitution: Grated mozzarella or crumbly feta can be used.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitution: Greek yogurt is a great, lighter alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Note: White vinegar will work as a substitute if needed.
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your small pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water.
  2. While the pasta cools, thaw the frozen peas in warm water. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes; then crumble it into pieces. Grate the Parmesan cheese.
  3. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until coated.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 10gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best flavor, let your Creamy Pasta Salad refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. Rinse pasta to prevent gumminess. Customize with favorite veggies or proteins.

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