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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That Will Steal the Show at Gatherings

This creamy pasta salad with bacon and peas is a must-try at gatherings, offering a comforting and customizable dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Small Pasta Noodles Gluten-free pasta works well too.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Thawed, corn is a great alternative.
  • 6 oz Thick Cut Bacon Cooked and chopped; turkey bacon can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier spin.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Avocado oil is a fantastic substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar White vinegar is a suitable replacement.
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar Can be omitted or replaced with honey or agave.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to other ingredients.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh chopped onion can be used.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add small pasta noodles and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent stickiness. Set aside to cool while you prepare the other ingredients.
  2. While the pasta cools, thaw the frozen peas by placing them in a bowl of warm water for about 5 minutes. Then, cook thick-cut bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat, turning them occasionally for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Remove from heat, chop into bits, and grate the parmesan cheese.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Next, add in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated parmesan cheese. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and gently stir using a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 to 2 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chilling enhances the flavor; reserve extra dressing if making in advance to keep the salad fresh.

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