Description
A rich, flavorful, and satisfying Creamy Pasta Salad made with bacon, peas, parmesan, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for summer potlucks or quick weekday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz small pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 12 oz thick cut bacon (cooked and chopped)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside to cool.
- Meanwhile, cook the bacon until crisp. Once cooled, chop into small bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently until well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Let the pasta cool completely before mixing to avoid melting the dressing.
- Customize with chopped red onions, cherry tomatoes, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: pasta salad recipe, Creamy Pasta Salad, pasta salad, Salad, summer, Recipe