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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad: Your Go-To Summer Side Dish Delight

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a delightful summer side dish that is versatile, quick to prepare, and perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 12 oz Pasta noodles Use al dente pasta to avoid mushiness; swap for gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Flavor
  • 12 oz Thick-cut bacon Provides a savory crunch; pancetta or prosciutto can serve as tasty alternatives.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Adds richness; substitute with Pecorino Romano if desired.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil Enhances the dish's creaminess; another neutral oil can be used.
  • 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar Adds a tangy kick; red wine vinegar can also be used.
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder Introduces depth to the dressing; fresh minced garlic will bring more intensity.
  • 1/2 tsp Onion powder Provides a hint of onion flavor; fresh onion is an option but may alter the texture.
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper Adds a subtle spice; fresh cracked pepper is ideal.
For the Salad Crunch
  • 2 cups Frozen peas Offers sweetness and bright color; substitute with corn or diced bell peppers as needed.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise This forms the base of your creamy dressing; consider Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative.
  • 1 tsp Sugar Balances acidity in the dressing; can omit for less sweetness.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta noodles and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel to absorb excess grease. In the same skillet, add frozen peas and sauté for 3–5 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, bacon, and peas. Add Parmesan cheese and gently fold together.
  5. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
  6. Cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Before serving, stir gently to redistribute the dressing and add more bacon or Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure to cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness. Save some bacon for a topping before serving.

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