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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad: Your New Go-To Potluck Delight

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of tender noodles, sweet peas, and a creamy dressing, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 2 cups small pasta noodles use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-sensitive option
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup frozen peas thawed
For the Protein
  • 6 slices thick cut bacon cooked and chopped
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise consider Greek yogurt for a lighter version
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin adds superior flavor
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar white wine vinegar works as an alternative
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar adjust based on taste preferences
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust according to the saltiness of bacon and cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder modify to taste
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder modify to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked enhances flavor
For the Topping
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese or use pecorino romano for a sharper taste

Equipment

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

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta and Preparing Add-Ins
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the small pasta noodles and cook them according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it gently under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a skillet, cook the thick cut bacon over medium heat until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Simultaneously, thaw the frozen peas by running them under warm water in a strainer or letting them sit at room temperature. Grate the Parmesan cheese and set aside.
Making the Dressing
  1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to taste. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
Combining Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently fold the ingredients together to ensure even distribution.
Dressing the Salad
  1. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir well, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated. This is crucial to achieving a rich, creamy sensation.
Chilling the Salad
  1. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. This allows flavors to meld. Alternatively, serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 580mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Let the salad chill for 1-2 hours for best flavor. Adjust dressing as needed if prepared in advance.

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