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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas for Summer Bliss

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This creamy pasta salad features tender pasta, crispy bacon, and sweet peas, making it a must-try dish for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 ounces Small Pasta Noodles Can swap with gluten-free pasta
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Thawed, fresh peas are a substitute when in season
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon Turkey or veggie bacon can be used for a lighter option
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano or dairy-free cheese are alternatives
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can be replaced with another neutral oil
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Regular vinegar or lemon juice are substitutes
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Honey or agave syrup can add sweetness
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Airtight container

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the small pasta noodles in a pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Cook the thick cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, whisk until combined.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, peas, crumbled bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Pour dressing over the top and stir gently to coat.
  5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This creamy pasta salad is make-ahead friendly. Prepare it a day in advance for the best flavor.

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