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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad: Your New Favorite Backyard BBQ Side

Creamy Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser with chewy noodles and rich, tangy dressing, perfect for summer barbecues.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz pasta noodles small shape like elbow or shell
  • 1 cup frozen peas thawed
  • 6 slices thick cut bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise can substitute Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar lemon juice can be an alternative
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula
  • whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. Thaw the frozen peas at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and let drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth, about 1-2 minutes, and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently fold the ingredients until evenly mixed.
  5. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and gently stir until every piece is coated. Ensure dressing is evenly combined.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight).
  7. Before serving, gently stir the salad and serve cold, garnishing with extra bacon or parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad is customizable and can last in the fridge for up to five days. For freshness, add more dressing if it seems dry before serving.

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