Description
This creamy pasta salad is a versatile side dish featuring tender pasta, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and Parmesan, all coated in a tangy, creamy dressing. Quick to make and customizable, it’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as a meal prep option.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Salad:
- 12 oz small pasta noodles (shells, rotini, or farfalle)
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 12 oz thick-cut beef or turkey bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta until al dente, drain, and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the peas, bacon, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
- Combine the pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan in a large bowl. Add the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill for 1–2 hours or serve immediately.
Notes
- Add extra dressing or olive oil before serving if the salad feels dry.
- Keep bacon separate until serving to maintain its crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American