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+ servings
Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That Will Steal the Show at BBQs

This creamy pasta salad captivates with its vibrant colors, crispy bacon, and customizable ingredients, making it the perfect side dish for BBQs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Mix-ins
  • 8 oz Small Pasta Noodles e.g., elbows or shells
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas thawed
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon cooked and chopped
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Garlic Powder
  • to taste Onion Powder
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the small pasta noodles and cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Mix-ins: Thaw the peas under warm water. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Whisk the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Whisk until smooth, then mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to mix well.
  5. Mix in the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and fold gently to coat evenly.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This creamy pasta salad can be prepared a day ahead for optimal flavor. Store in an airtight container.

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