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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad for Potlucks – A Delightful Crowd-Pleaser

Enjoy this Creamy Pasta Salad, a customizable dish perfect for potlucks, featuring bacon, peas, and a creamy dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Small Pasta Noodles Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Thawed; corn is a great alternative.
  • 6 slices Thick Cut Bacon Cooked and chopped; turkey bacon can be used.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Feta can be used as a substitute.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used instead.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar White wine vinegar works as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Honey or maple syrup can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Reduce or skip for low-sodium option.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh diced onions can be swapped in.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Skillet
  • Medium Bowl
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Thaw frozen peas in a small bowl. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until crispy, then crumble.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, peas, crumbled bacon, and Parmesan cheese. Fold together gently.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir to coat evenly.
  6. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow flavors to meld by chilling before serving. Extra dressing helps maintain creaminess if made ahead.

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