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+ servings
A bowl of creamy pasta salad with colorful vegetables and dressing

Creamy Pasta Salad

A comforting and crowd-pleasing pasta salad with rich flavors, perfect for warm months, potlucks, and picnics.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients

  • 12 oz small pasta noodles Cook according to package directions.
  • 2 cup frozen peas Thawed.
  • 12 oz thick cut bacon Cooked and chopped.
  • ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese For mixing in and garnish.

Dressing Ingredients

  • ¾ cup mayonnaise Main dressing component.
  • 2 TBS olive oil For dressing.
  • 1 TBS apple cider vinegar Adds tang to the dressing.
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar To taste.
  • 1 tsp salt To taste.
  • ½ tsp garlic powder To taste.
  • ½ tsp onion powder To taste.
  • ¼ tsp black pepper To taste.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the small pasta noodles. Cook according to the package directions until al dente.
  • Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, rinse under cold running water to cool, and toss gently.
  • Thaw peas, chop bacon, and grate Parmesan cheese while the pasta cooks.

Making the Dressing

  • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.

Combining Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and grated Parmesan.
  • Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
  • Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours before serving.

Serving

  • Taste the salad before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan and reserved bacon.

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Adjust dressing before serving if needed. Can be made a day in advance.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 14gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g
Keyword Creamy Salad, Easy Recipe, Pasta Salad, Potluck Recipe, summer dish
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