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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That'll Steal the Show at Any Gathering

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a delectable side dish that combines pasta, bacon, and peas for a delightful addition to any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Small Pasta Noodles gluten-free or whole wheat optional
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas corn can be used as a swap
For the Protein
  • 6 oz Thick-Cut Bacon turkey bacon or crumbled chicken for lighter option
For the Dressings
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil avocado oil can be used
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar lemon juice makes a great substitute
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar adjust based on personal preference
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder or fresh garlic
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder or fresh onion
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper to taste
For the Garnish
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese feta or nutritional yeast for dairy-free

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • small mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Add the small pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the remaining ingredients. Thaw the frozen peas and cook the thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Crumble the bacon and grate the Parmesan cheese.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Gently toss to mix.
  5. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture, gently folding it in to coat all ingredients evenly.
  6. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Freshness can be maintained by adding extra dressing before serving.

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