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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad That Will Wow Your Next Gathering

Experience the delightful blend of flavors in this creamy pasta salad that’s perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups small pasta noodles Use any short shape like rotini or penne.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup frozen peas Thawed.
For the Protein
  • 6 slices thick cut bacon Consider turkey bacon for a lighter option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Swap for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can lighten it up.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Avocado oil is a good substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Use white wine vinegar or lemon juice if preferred.
  • 1 tablespoons granulated sugar Adjust to taste or replace with honey.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Modify based on dietary needs.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Consider fresh chopped onions.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adjust according to preference.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • medium bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil the pasta in a large pot of water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. While pasta cooks, thaw peas and cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain and crumble bacon once cooled.
  3. Mix dressing ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth; taste and adjust seasonings.
  4. Combine pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan in a large bowl. Fold gently to distribute.
  5. Dress the pasta mixture with the creamy dressing, stirring until evenly coated.
  6. Cover and chill for 1 to 2 hours before serving to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Perfect for meal prep; tastes even better after a day in the fridge.

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