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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That Everyone Will Love

This Creamy Pasta Salad combines crispy bacon, sweet peas, and tender pasta in a delightful dressing, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Small pasta noodles substitutable with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
  • 1 cup Frozen peas thawed
  • 6 slices Thick-cut bacon cooked and chopped
  • 1 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese can use nutritional yeast for dairy-free option
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil or avocado oil as an alternative
  • 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar/lemon juice if needed
  • 2 teaspoons Granulated sugar can adjust to taste; honey/maple syrup are alternatives
  • 1 teaspoon Salt to taste; opt for less sodium if desired
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic if preferred
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder can use finely chopped fresh onion
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper adjust according to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water until chilled.
  2. While pasta is cooking, thaw peas at room temperature for about 5 minutes and cook bacon until crispy in a skillet over medium heat, about 8-10 minutes. Chop bacon and set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine drained pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat.
  5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor, but can be served immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This creamy pasta salad can be customized with add-ins like corn or grilled chicken for extra flavor.

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