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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That's Perfect for Any Gathering

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of savory bacon, sweet peas, and a rich dressing, making it perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces small pasta noodles (elbow macaroni or shells)
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
For the Protein
  • 6 ounces thick cut bacon (cooked and chopped)
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium bowl
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add small pasta noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Ensure frozen peas are thawed and thick cut bacon is cooked and crumbled. Grate Parmesan cheese.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Pour dressing over salad and gently fold to combine.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad is customizable; feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins. Store in the fridge for 3-5 days and refresh with dressing before serving.

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