This creamy pasta salad is loaded with tender pasta, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and parmesan, all tossed in a rich and tangy dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for potlucks, BBQs, or any dinner that needs a little extra indulgence!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz small pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 12 oz thick cut bacon (cooked and chopped)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prep the Ingredients: While the pasta is cooking, thaw the peas, cook and chop the bacon, and grate the parmesan cheese. Set aside.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and combined.
- Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill & Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 1-2 hours for the flavors to meld. Alternatively, serve immediately for a fresh and creamy salad.
Tips:
- Customize the Veggies: You can add other veggies like diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or red onions for extra crunch and flavor.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise and increase the olive oil or add a little Greek yogurt.
- Leftovers: This pasta salad stores well in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers!
Notes:
- For the best flavor, make sure to chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to let the dressing fully absorb into the pasta and other ingredients.
- Crispy Bacon Tip: To get extra crispy bacon, cook it until golden brown and crunchy. It adds a great texture to the salad.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 379 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 28mg
- Sodium: 537mg
- Potassium: 190mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 241 IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 62mg
- Iron: 1mg
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