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–+ servings
Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad With Bacon for the Perfect Potluck Delight

This Creamy Pasta Salad brings together tender pasta, crispy bacon, and sweet peas, making it a perfect side for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Small Pasta Noodles Feel free to substitute with medium shells, rotini, or farfalle.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas (thawed) Can be replaced with corn or fresh peas.
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon (cooked and chopped) Consider using turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitute with cheddar for a unique twist.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used as a different option.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Substitute with white vinegar or fresh lemon juice.
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove, cool, and crumble.
  3. Thaw peas by running them under water in a colander.
  4. Whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a bowl until smooth.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, peas, crumbled bacon, and Parmesan. Pour dressing over and mix gently. Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

You can customize this pasta salad by mixing in your favorite veggies or proteins. Cook pasta al dente for the best texture and let salad chill before serving to enhance flavors.

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