Creamy Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how simple yet satisfying this creamy pasta salad is. The combination of crispy bacon, fresh peas, and parmesan cheese creates a savory base, while the creamy dressing ties everything together perfectly. It’s a dish that’s easy to make in just 30 minutes and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings. The creamy dressing is customizable with the perfect balance of tang and sweetness, and the crunchy bacon adds the perfect touch of richness. This dish truly has something for everyone!

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

For the Creamy Dressing:

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)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta noodles in a large pot of water according to the package directions, until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta is cooking, ensure the peas are thawed, the bacon is cooked and chopped, and the parmesan cheese is freshly grated.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, thawed peas, bacon, and parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together until the pasta and ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.

Chill & Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to let the flavors meld together. You can also serve it immediately if you’re short on time.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Chilling time: 1-2 hours

Variations

If I’m looking to make this salad a bit lighter, I’ll substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise, giving it a creamier texture with a tangier flavor.

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add in extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for added color and crunch.

For a gluten-free version, just swap the regular pasta for gluten-free noodles.

To give it a bit more flavor, I sometimes add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing for an extra zing.

Storage/Reheating

This pasta salad stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend storing it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

There’s no need to reheat this salad as it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If the salad thickens in the fridge, simply add a little more olive oil or a splash of vinegar to loosen it up before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually tastes even better after it’s had some time to chill and allow the flavors to meld together. I recommend making it a few hours ahead of time, or even the night before, for the best results.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Absolutely! While I use small pasta noodles like rotini or elbow macaroni, you can swap them out with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or farfalle. Just be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.

Is there a substitute for bacon if I don’t eat pork?

If I’m looking for a non-pork option, I love using turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative that still adds a nice crunch.

How do I make the dressing tangier?

If I want more tang in the dressing, I’ll add a bit more apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. It balances perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar.

Can I freeze the creamy pasta salad?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing this pasta salad as the creamy dressing may separate and the pasta might lose its texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.

Conclusion

This Creamy Pasta Salad is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a rich dressing. I love how easy it is to make, and it’s always a hit at potlucks, BBQs, or family dinners. It’s a simple yet satisfying side dish that’s sure to become a favorite!

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