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Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad

Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad – A Quick Flavor Explosion

This Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that comes together in just 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Shells Can substitute with fusilli or bowtie for a fun twist.
For the Salad
  • 1 lb Bacon Opt for thick-cut for maximum flavor and texture.
  • 2 cups Peas Use frozen peas, thawed before adding.
  • 2/3 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Choose high-quality parmesan for best results.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt as a healthier option.
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil Use extra virgin for enhanced taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice Lemon juice gives a fresher kick.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Granulated Sugar Adjust based on sweetness preference.
  • 3/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Provides a gentle kick.
  • 3/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder Freshly minced can intensify taste.
  • 3/4 teaspoon Onion Powder Freshly minced can intensify taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • Whisk
  • spoon

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and drizzle with olive oil.
  2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy and golden brown (6-8 minutes). Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta, crispy bacon, and thawed peas. Pour dressing over and toss until well-coated. Fold in grated Parmesan.
  5. Chill the Salad: Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Serve and Refresh: Stir salad before serving. If dry, drizzle with reserved dressing and toss again. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, allow the salad to chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refresh with a bit of dressing before serving.

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