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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Side Delight

Creamy Pasta Salad is the perfect summer side dish that combines tender pasta, sweet peas, and crispy bacon in a luscious dressing.
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: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Small Pasta Noodles Use any small pasta shape preferred, such as rotini or farfalle.
For the Mix-ins
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas (thawed) Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon Crispy bacon brings savory flavor.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances creaminess.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Creates the creamy dressing base.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Provides acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Balances flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder For aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adds savory depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper For seasoning.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, thaw the peas in warm water. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble. Grate the Parmesan cheese.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. Combine the pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan in a mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over and stir until evenly coated.
  5. Refrigerate the salad for 1-2 hours before serving, or serve immediately if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow the salad to chill for enhanced flavors and enjoy customization with various vegetables.

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