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Creamy Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad Recipe

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This creamy pasta salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or light meals. Featuring tender small pasta noodles mixed with sweet peas, savory bacon, and sharp parmesan, all tossed in a rich, tangy homemade dressing, it's a crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 30 minutes and serves 12.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 12 oz small pasta noodles
  • 2 cups frozen peas, thawed

Protein and Cheese

  • 12 oz thick cut bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Dressing

  • 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

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the small pasta noodles in a large pot of water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
  2. Prepare Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, ensure the peas are fully thawed, the bacon is cooked until crisp and chopped, and the parmesan cheese is freshly grated. Set all aside for easy assembly.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta noodles, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and grated parmesan cheese. Pour the prepared dressing over everything and stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the salad chill. Alternatively, serve immediately if preferred.

Notes

  • For best flavor, allow the salad to chill before serving so the dressing can fully absorb into the pasta.
  • You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian option (though this changes the diet classification).
  • Adjust salt, sugar, and spices according to your taste preference.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan for superior flavor over pre-grated cheese.
  • Serve as a side dish or add extra veggies like diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/creamy-bacon-and-pea-pasta-salad-recipe/