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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad that's Perfect for Summer Gatherings

This creamy pasta salad is a must-try for summer gatherings, bursting with flavor and customizable to your taste.
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: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Small Pasta Noodles Any small shape like macaroni or shells can be used.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Ensure they are thawed before use.
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon Cook until crispy and crumble.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino can be substituted.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil Any neutral oil is a good substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar White wine vinegar can also be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Adjust or omit if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the small pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water. Allow it to dry briefly while prepping other ingredients.
  3. Cook the thick cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towel and crumble.
  4. Thaw the frozen peas under warm water for a minute, then drain well.
  5. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
  6. In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta, peas, crumbled bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Pour dressing over and stir gently until well combined.
  7. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Best when made a day ahead to let flavors meld. Can customize with different ingredients like corn or bell peppers.

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