Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

This creamy pasta salad is a perfect blend of tender noodles, sweet peas, and savory bacon, all coated in a rich, tangy dressing. It’s easy to make and ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight side dish.

Ingredients

• 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

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta noodles in a large pot of boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Step 2: While the pasta cooks, thaw the peas, cook and crumble the bacon, and grate the parmesan cheese. Set all aside.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and combined.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to chill and let flavors meld, or serve immediately if you prefer it fresh.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add chopped celery or diced bell peppers to the salad.
• Swap apple cider vinegar with lemon juice for a brighter, citrusy tang.
• Use Greek yogurt mixed with mayonnaise for a lighter dressing option.
• Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the freshness.

Storage

Store the creamy pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. It’s best served chilled and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Avoid freezing as it can affect the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes for this salad?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or bowties work well to hold the dressing and mix evenly with the other ingredients.

Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated to maintain freshness and allow the flavors to develop.

Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 145 reviews

This creamy pasta salad is a delightful blend of tender pasta, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a rich Parmesan-infused dressing. Perfectly chilled and bursting with flavor, it makes an ideal side dish or light meal for summer picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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 Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
2. Prepare Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, ensure the frozen peas are thawed, the thick cut bacon is cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces, and the Parmesan cheese is freshly grated. Set all aside for assembly.
3. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth.
4. Combine Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and grated Parmesan. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients and stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly with the creamy dressing.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Alternatively, serve immediately if preferred, though chilling enhances taste and texture.

Notes

• For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded.
• Adjust salt, sugar, and pepper in the dressing to your taste preference.
• Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy and to cool it down quickly.
• This salad can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated for enhanced flavor.
• Optional add-ins: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh touch.

Keywords: creamy pasta salad, bacon pasta salad, cold pasta salad, easy pasta salad recipe, summer salad, picnic salad