Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Creamy Pasta Salad, a perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, and summer barbecues. This easy-to-make salad combines tender pasta with vibrant peas and crispy turkey bacon, all enveloped in a smooth and creamy dressing. The result is a refreshing side dish that balances rich textures and fresh tastes, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Best of all, this recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes and can be made ahead of time to enhance its flavor profile. Whether served cold at a picnic or alongside grilled meats, this pasta salad is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 12 oz small pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 12 oz thick-cut turkey bacon (cooked and chopped)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the peas, chop the turkey bacon, and grate the parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until combined.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, thawed peas, turkey bacon, and parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving or enjoy immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added crunch and flavor variations, consider mixing in chopped celery or bell peppers. Adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences for an even more personalized dish. This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance for enhanced flavor.