I still remember the first time I made this Creamy Pasta Salad for my family. It was one of those warm summer days, the kind where the sun lazily hangs in the sky, and everyone seems to move a little slower, savoring the calm. My family and I were having an impromptu picnic in the backyard, and I wanted something quick, yet satisfying, to accompany our grilled burgers. I had made pasta salads before, but this one was different—creamy, rich, and brimming with flavors that remind me of comfort and home.
The recipe came together from ingredients I already had on hand, a mix of pantry staples and fresh finds from the fridge. I had just returned from a trip to Italy where I discovered the magic of simple pasta dishes, where quality ingredients take center stage. I wanted to bring that feeling back to my own kitchen, and this salad was the perfect opportunity. The freshly grated parmesan, the smoky, crispy bacon, and the bright peas combined with the creamy dressing—it all reminded me of those quaint Italian markets where the smell of cured meats and fresh cheese filled the air.
As the salad chilled, I couldn’t help but think of the gatherings I’ve experienced over the years. There’s something about food that draws people together, and this dish has become a family favorite for every occasion—from Sunday barbecues to holiday potlucks. Even my picky eaters devour it, and I always get asked for the recipe. It’s the kind of dish that works all year round, yet somehow tastes even better when shared outdoors with the people you love.
The tangy mayonnaise dressing paired with the apple cider vinegar adds just the right amount of zing, while the pasta provides a hearty base. The crispy bacon brings a savory crunch, and the peas give a pop of sweetness that balances everything out. Whether you’re serving this at a large gathering or just making it for a casual family meal, this creamy pasta salad will surely leave an impression.
Making Creamy Pasta Salad
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Ingredients
- 12 oz small-shaped pasta
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 12 oz thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions
- Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
- While the pasta cooks, ensure the peas are thawed, bacon is cooked and chopped, and the parmesan is freshly grated. Set these aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything until evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours before serving, or serve immediately if preferred.
Storing Suggestion
Keep any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Cooking Tips
If you want a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. You can also crisp up the bacon in the oven for extra crunch before adding it to the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta salad pairs well with grilled chicken or burgers. Garnish with extra parmesan or fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Greek yogurt can replace some or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Seasonal Variations
During summer, add fresh cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for added crunch. In the colder months, roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (parmesan), eggs (mayonnaise), and gluten (pasta). Use gluten-free pasta and dairy-free alternatives if needed.
FAQ:
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Rinse the pasta under cold water after draining it to cool it down and stop the cooking process, which helps prevent sticking.
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate it in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of bacon?
You can replace bacon with turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative for a vegetarian option.
How long will the pasta salad last in the fridge?
This pasta salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any small-shaped pasta like rotini, fusilli, or shells will work well in this recipe.
How can I make the salad healthier?
To make it healthier, you can substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon.
Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta small shape
- 2 cups peas frozen (thawed)
- 12 oz bacon thick-cut (cooked and chopped)
- 1/2 cup parmesan freshly grated
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar to taste
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling water following the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water.
- While the pasta is cooking, ensure the peas are thawed, the bacon is cooked and chopped, and the parmesan is grated. Set these ingredients aside.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, peas, bacon, and parmesan. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients. Stir everything until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to chill, or serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy pasta salad!
