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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon and Peas for Ultimate Comfort

This Creamy Pasta Salad offers buttery richness with bacon and peas for a delightful dish perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz small pasta noodles Consider whole wheat or gluten-free options if desired.
  • 2 cups frozen peas Thawed; feel free to swap in corn for a different flavor profile.
  • 12 oz thick-cut bacon Cooked and chopped; turkey bacon is a lower-fat alternative.
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano can elevate the taste with its sharper profile.
For the Dressing
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for a lighter version.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Avocado oil works well here too.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar White wine vinegar is a great alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar Consider using honey for a more natural option.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste as the bacon and cheese are salty.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Substituting with fresh minced garlic can offer a fresher kick.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Diced fresh onions can bring in more bite and texture.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Red pepper flakes are a fiery option!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑By‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the small pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually for 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the remaining ingredients. Thaw the frozen peas, cook and crumble bacon until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Grate the Parmesan cheese.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently fold to mix.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently stir to coat. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving to let flavors meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Prepare extra dressing if chilling overnight to prevent the salad from drying out. Feel free to customize ingredients and enjoy this dish for any gathering.

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