Can I make this Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, many people prefer it after it has chilled for several hours because the flavors become more pronounced.

How long will it keep in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 3 days.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes. Small shells, elbow macaroni, rotini, and bow ties all work beautifully.

What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?

Lemon juice or white vinegar are excellent alternatives. Some home cooks successfully used lemon juice and loved the results.

Can I leave out the peas?

Of course. Some cooks replaced them with broccoli, edamame, carrots, or other vegetables and still enjoyed excellent results.

Is this recipe good for potlucks?

Definitely. This is one of the most frequently praised qualities of the dish, with many people bringing it to church gatherings, work events, holiday celebrations, and cookouts.

Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe: Delicious 5-Step Favorite

Description

This Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe is loaded with tender shell pasta, crispy bacon, sweet peas, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, all tossed in a rich and tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, picnics, and family dinners, this easy side dish comes together quickly and tastes even better after chilling.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta Salad

12 oz small shell pasta noodles
2 cups frozen peas, thawed
12 oz thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Creamy Dressing

3/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
While the pasta cooks, thaw the peas, cook and crumble the bacon, and grate the Parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
Add the cooled pasta, peas, bacon, and Parmesan cheese to a large mixing bowl.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours before serving for the best flavor, or serve immediately.

Notes

Chilling the salad enhances the flavor and allows the dressing to absorb into the pasta.

Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best texture and flavor.

Add diced celery, green onions, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color.

Rotisserie chicken can be added to turn this side dish into a complete meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling, Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 379
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 537mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 28mg