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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That Steals the Show at Every Gathering

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a delightful side dish that’s both comforting and customizable, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Small Pasta Noodles choose short shapes like rotini or shells
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Frozen Peas thawed
For the Protein
  • 12 oz Thick Cut Bacon provides savory crunch
For the Cheese
  • 0.5 cups Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
For the Dressing
  • 0.75 cups Mayonnaise creates the creamy base
  • 2 TBS Olive Oil adds richness
  • 1 TBS Apple Cider Vinegar brings acidity and brightness
  • 1 tsp Granulated Sugar to taste
For Seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Garlic Powder to taste
  • Onion Powder to taste
  • Black Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces of small pasta noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While the pasta cools, prepare your ingredients: thaw 2 cups of frozen peas, cook 12 ounces of thick-cut bacon until crispy, and grate ½ cup of Parmesan cheese.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Season with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese. Fold gently to mix.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir to coat evenly. Ensure all ingredients are well combined without overmixing.
  6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve as a side dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, let the salad chill for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance flavor.

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