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Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Potluck Hit Everyone Loves

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a vibrant, satisfying dish perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces small pasta noodles (e.g., rotini or shells) Choose any shape for best texture.
For the Mix-Ins
  • 1 cup frozen peas Thaw before using.
  • 6 slices thick cut bacon Cook and crumble beforehand.
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Substitute with feta for a different flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar White wine vinegar works too.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Adjust to taste.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust based on preference.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Can replace with finely chopped fresh onion.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Season to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Prepare the mix-ins: thaw peas, cook and crumble bacon, and grate Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated cheese. Pour dressing over and mix until coated.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours to enhance flavors. Serve chilled.
  6. Just before serving, stir gently and adjust consistency with olive oil or mayonnaise if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 9gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For the best flavor, enjoy this salad cold rather than reheating. Store in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.

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