Creamy Pasta Salad with Peas, Bacon, and Parmesan Recipe
A creamy and flavorful pasta salad that combines tender pasta, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a tangy homemade dressing, perfect for gatherings or as a satisfying side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz small pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
Meat and Cheese
- 12 oz thick cut bacon (cooked and chopped)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Prepare ingredients: While the pasta cooks, thaw the peas, cook and crumble the bacon into pieces, and grate the parmesan cheese. Set everything aside.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and grated parmesan. Pour the dressing over the top and stir thoroughly to evenly coat all the ingredients.
- Chill and serve: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately if preferred.
Notes
- For best flavor, chill the pasta salad before serving to let the dressing soak in.
- You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Feel free to add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and sugar, depending on preferences.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, bacon pasta salad, easy side dish, summer salad, picnic recipe
