Creamy Pasta Salad with Bacon, Peas, and Parmesan Recipe
Introduction
This creamy pasta salad is a delightful mix of tender noodles, crisp peas, and savory bacon, all coated in a tangy, flavorful dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick side dish, it’s refreshing and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes.
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
- 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
- Step 1: Cook the pasta noodles in a large pot of boiling water following the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, thaw the peas, cook and crumble the bacon, and grate the parmesan cheese. Set these aside.
- Step 3: 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 combined.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan. Pour the dressing over and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 5: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to let flavors meld, or serve immediately if preferred.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add chopped celery or diced bell peppers.
- Swap bacon for cooked pancetta or smoked ham for different smoky notes.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
- Adjust seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder to suit your taste preferences.
Storage
Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a good stir and, if needed, add a splash of olive oil or vinegar to freshen the flavors. It’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas?
Yes, fresh peas can be used. Blanch them briefly in boiling water for about 1 minute, then cool quickly in ice water before adding to the salad.
Is it okay to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. Preparing the salad a few hours or even the day before allows the flavors to develop. Just store it covered in the fridge and stir well before serving.
PrintCreamy Pasta Salad with Bacon, Peas, and Parmesan Recipe
This creamy pasta salad is a delightful combination of tender pasta, sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfectly chilled and tossed with parmesan cheese, it makes an ideal side dish for summer picnics, barbecues, or light meals. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe balances creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors with a satisfying texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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 (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the pasta noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool down.
- Prepare Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, ensure the peas are thawed, the bacon is cooked and chopped into pieces, and the parmesan cheese is freshly grated. Set these aside for assembly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Combine Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled pasta, thawed peas, chopped bacon, and grated parmesan. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and salad to chill. Alternatively, serve immediately if preferred.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the salad to chill for at least an hour before serving.
- You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Mayonnaise can be replaced with a low-fat or vegan mayo if desired.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and sugar based on your preference.
- This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Creamy pasta salad, bacon pasta salad, pea pasta salad, picnic salad, summer pasta salad, easy pasta salad
