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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad Your New Go-To Side for Any Occasion

Creamy Pasta Salad is a delightful medley of tender pasta, vibrant peas, and crispy bacon, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 8 ounces Small Pasta Noodles Can substitute with rotini or shells
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas (thawed) Corn can be used as an alternative
For the Flavor
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon (cooked and chopped) Turkey bacon is a good vegetarian choice
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Can substitute with grated mozzarella or nutritional yeast
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Try Greek yogurt for a lighter flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil is also a substitute
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar White wine vinegar or lemon juice can be used
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Adjust to taste or leave out
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can substitute with fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adjust to preference
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Increase or decrease according to spice tolerance

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Strainer
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • airtight container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Step 1: Boil and Prepare Pasta - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the small pasta noodles until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Step 2: Thaw Peas and Prepare Bacon - Thaw the peas by running them under warm water. Cook bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes, and chop into pieces.
  3. Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing - Whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and granulated sugar. Add seasonings to taste.
  4. Step 4: Combine Pasta and Mix-Ins - In a mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Add dressing and stir to coat evenly.
  5. Step 5: Chill and Serve - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow the salad to chill for at least 1-2 hours for optimal flavor.

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