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+ servings
Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad with Sweet Peas and Crispy Bacon Delight

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of pasta, sweet peas, and crispy bacon, perfect for summer barbecues and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz small pasta noodles Substitute with any small pasta like rotini or bowtie.
  • 2 cups frozen peas Thawed, can swap with thawed corn.
  • 12 oz thick-cut bacon Cooked and chopped; turkey bacon is a lighter alternative.
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese Consider pecorino or nutritional yeast for dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt serves as a healthier substitute.
  • 2 TBS olive oil Avocado oil is a great replacement.
  • 1 TBS apple cider vinegar White wine vinegar can also be used.
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar Honey or maple syrup work well as alternatives.
  • 1 tsp salt Can be reduced for a low-sodium option.
For Extra Flavor
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder Fresh minced garlic is a lovely alternative.
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder Shallots can amplify flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper Adjust as preferred.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add small pasta noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the peas and bacon: While the pasta is cooking, thaw the peas. In a skillet, cook thick-cut bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Make the dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth.
  4. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and grated parmesan cheese. Gently fold together.
  5. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and fold until well-coated.
  6. Chill before serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve with grilled meats or as a standalone dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and is best served chilled. Adjust flavors to suit your taste and enjoy!

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