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+ servings
Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That Elevates Any Potluck Gathering

A creamy pasta salad that combines fresh peas and crispy bacon for a delightful crowd-pleaser at any potluck. Perfectly customizable and quick to prepare.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Small Pasta Noodles (rotini or macaroni)
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas (thawed)
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon Cook until crispy
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Can substitute with lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on bacon saltiness
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic is a good swap
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Chopped red onion can be used
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust for heat preference

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Thaw peas in warm water if using frozen. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Crumble and set aside to cool.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, peas, crumbled bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently.
  5. Pour dressing over salad mixture and stir until everything is coated. Ensure there are no dry patches.
  6. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Customize with fresh corn or cherry tomatoes for added flavor.

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