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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That's Perfect for Any Gathering

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a versatile dish perfect for gatherings, featuring smoky bacon and sweet peas in a rich dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Small Pasta Noodles Elbow macaroni or rotini; opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Thawed for better texture.
For the Protein
  • 6 oz Thick Cut Bacon Can be substituted with smoked tofu for a vegetarian option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Omit for a dairy-free version or replace with nutritional yeast.
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Salt Modify as needed.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Adjust to personal preference.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Optional based on your taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Use to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water, and pat dry.
  2. While pasta cooks, thaw peas at room temperature. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel to cool, then chop.
  3. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until evenly combined.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until well coated.
  6. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 10gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Dress just before serving for the best results.

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