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Creamy Pasta Salad

A smooth, flavorful pasta salad rich with savory bacon, tender peas, and al dente noodles, all enveloped in a velvety, tangy dressing. Ideal for gatherings, dinners, or festive barbecues.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz thick cut bacon cooked and chopped
  • 2 cup frozen peas thawed
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 12 oz small pasta noodles
  • For the Creamy Dressing:
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar to taste
  • 1 TBS apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper to taste
  • 2 TBS olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder to taste
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder to taste

Instructions
 

  • Boil the pasta in a large pot of water, following the package instructions until the noodles reach an al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to halt further cooking.
  • As the pasta cooks, ensure the peas are thawed, the bacon is crisped and chopped, and the parmesan is grated and ready.
  • In a separate, smaller bowl, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture becomes a smooth, cohesive dressing.
  • Transfer the cooked pasta, peas, bacon, and grated parmesan to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the top and stir until all components are evenly coated.
  • Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to enhance flavor melding, or serve immediately if preferred.