This creamy pea and bacon pasta salad is a savory, indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s simple to make, family-friendly, and packed with flavor. Imagine rich, creamy dressing enveloping tender pasta, crunchy peas, and crispy bacon. This recipe is a must-try for your next gathering!
Table of Contents
The Best Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad
This creamy pea and bacon pasta salad shines with its delightful combination of textures and flavors. The small shell pasta offers a fun bite, while the peas add a fresh crunch. Bacon gives a savory depth, and the creamy dressing ties it all together. It’s satisfying yet light, making it a fantastic choice for potlucks or quick weeknight meals.
Key Ingredients for Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious pasta dish that everyone will adore:
- 1 lb small shell pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1 lb bacon, cooked and chopped
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or grated
- Flat-leaf Italian parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp white granulated sugar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad
Preparing the Pasta
Begin by boiling the small shell pasta in heavily salted water. Cook it until al dente, which should take about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water, and let it cool slightly to avoid cooking further.
Crafting the Creamy Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing serves as the flavorful base for your salad.
Assembling the Pasta Salad
Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the dressing. Then, mix in the thawed peas, chopped bacon, and the Parmesan cheese. Toss everything gently until every ingredient is well coated in that luscious dressing.
Chilling and Serving Your Pasta Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. Chilling lets the flavors meld beautifully. If you’re making it ahead of time, it can sit in the fridge for up to 8 hours. When ready to serve, garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pasta Salad
Maximizing Pasta Flavor
To enhance the pasta’s flavor, don’t skimp on salting the boiling water. This step allows the pasta to absorb a bit of that savory goodness, making all the difference in your salad.
Easy Dressing Preparation Method
If you prefer, you can prepare the dressing in a mason jar. Just add all the dressing ingredients, screw on the lid, and shake until blended. It’s a quick and mess-free method!
Serving Suggestions for Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad
This creamy pea and bacon pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled steaks or chicken, making it an ideal side dish for summer barbecues or family dinners. The combination of flavors is sure to impress your guests!
Storing Your Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 8 hours, maintaining its creamy texture and flavor. Just give it a quick stir before serving again.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Creamy Pea And Bacon Pasta Salad?
You will need small shell pasta, frozen peas, bacon, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, Kosher salt, and black pepper.
How do I make Creamy Pea And Bacon Pasta Salad step by step?
First, cook the pasta until al dente. Next, whisk together the dressing ingredients. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing, mix in peas, bacon, and cheese, then chill before serving.
Can I make Creamy Pea And Bacon Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad up to 8 hours in advance and refrigerate it until serving.
How should I store leftover Creamy Pea And Bacon Pasta Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 8 hours. Stir before serving again to refresh the flavors.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
This creamy pea and bacon pasta salad is a delightful dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. It’s perfect for gatherings and can be easily prepared ahead of time. For more delicious ideas, check out Pinterest for salad inspirations. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad: A Delicious Delight
Equipment
- large bowl
- mason jar (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb small shell pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1 lb bacon, cooked and chopped
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or grated
- Flat-leaf Italian parsley, chopped for garnish
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp white granulated sugar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Boil pasta in heavily salted water until al dente, then drain, rinse, and cool slightly.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined.
- Add the cooled pasta to the dressing, then mix in the thawed peas, cooked bacon, and Parmesan cheese.
- Toss until all ingredients are well combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley just before serving.
