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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas and Bacon for Your Next BBQ

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This creamy pasta salad with peas and bacon is a must-try for your next BBQ, combining rich flavors and a delightful texture.
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: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 cups Small Pasta Noodles such as elbow macaroni or shells
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas thawed
  • 6 strips Thick Cut Bacon cooked and chopped
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder optional
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper adjust to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Crumble and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, peas, and crumbled bacon along with the Parmesan cheese.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Season with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently fold until well coated.
  6. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with other vegetables or proteins. It can be made a day in advance. Store in an airtight container for 3-5 days.

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