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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That Makes Every Bite a Delight

This Creamy Pasta Salad combines crispy bacon, sweet peas, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich dressing, making it the ideal side for gatherings.
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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: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 2 cups Small Pasta Noodles (rotini or fusilli) Use bite-sized pasta that holds flavors.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Thaw before adding.
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon Can substitute turkey bacon.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated or shredded for easy mixing.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil is a good substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar White vinegar can also be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Be cautious with levels if using salty bacon.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic works well too.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onions can be used for texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper

Equipment

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

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook small pasta noodles according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Ingredients: Thaw the frozen peas in warm water. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Cool and crumble bacon. Grate Parmesan cheese.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated Parmesan. Pour dressing over salad and mix gently.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover salad and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving. Stir before serving either cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad keeps well in the fridge for 3-5 days. Adjust dressing before serving if needed to maintain creaminess.

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