Name: Creamy Pasta Salad: The Perfect Summer Side Dish Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 12 oz small pasta noodles (Feel free to swap with any small pasta shape); 2 cups frozen peas (Thawed); 12 oz thick cut bacon (Cooked and chopped); 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (Can swap for feta); 3/4 cup mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be used); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp granulated sugar (Adjust to taste); 1 tsp salt (Be cautious if other ingredients are salty); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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As summer approaches and the outdoor gatherings begin, I find myself yearning for vibrant, refreshing dishes that cater to both flavor and ease. That’s exactly where my Creamy Pasta Salad Loaded with Peas and Bacon comes into play! This delightful side dish not only bursts with color but also offers the perfect blend of textures—from tender pasta to crunchy peas and crispy bacon, all wrapped in a luscious, creamy dressing. What I love most about this recipe is its incredible versatility; it’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser for potlucks and barbecues, and it’s ready in no time! Plus, you can easily customize it by adding grilled chicken or switching out peas for corn. Are you ready to elevate your next meal with this satisfying salad?

Why Is Creamy Pasta Salad a Must-Try?

Versatile and Customizable: This creamy pasta salad allows you to play with flavors! Swap peas for corn or add grilled chicken to make it your own.

Satisfying Comfort: Rich, smooth dressing coats every bite, providing a comforting escape from typical fast food.

Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, you can whip this up for an impromptu gathering or a weeknight dinner.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: A surefire hit at barbecues and potlucks, everyone will ask for the recipe!

Easy to Store: Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. If you enjoy pasta salads, check out my Protein Pasta Salad for another delicious option!

Creamy Pasta Salad Ingredients

• Perfect for your next gathering!

For the Salad

12 oz small pasta noodles – This serves as the hearty base; feel free to swap with any small pasta shape you have on hand.
2 cups frozen peas (thawed) – They bring a burst of color and freshness; corn is a fantastic alternative for the same crunch.
12 oz thick cut bacon (cooked and chopped) – Offers a savory flavor and crunchy texture; swap for turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty touch; feta can be used for a tangier twist.

For the Dressing

3/4 cup mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base; Greek yogurt serves as a lighter substitute if preferred.
2 tbsp olive oil – Helps emulsify the dressing while adding a touch of richness.
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – This brings acidity that balances the creaminess of the dressing.
1 tsp granulated sugar – A little sweetness can balance out flavors; adjust to your taste!
1 tsp salt – Enhances overall flavor; be cautious if your other ingredients are already salty.
1/2 tsp garlic powder – Infuses depth into the dressing, adding comforting notes.
1/2 tsp onion powder – Complements the other ingredients beautifully.
1/4 tsp black pepper – A hint of spice to elevate the dish’s profile.

With these ingredients, you’ll create a creamy pasta salad that is sure to impress at any gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the 12 oz small pasta noodles and cook them until al dente, which usually takes 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This ensures your creamy pasta salad remains light and refreshing.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While the pasta cools, take 2 cups of frozen peas and let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave. In a skillet, cook 12 oz thick-cut bacon until crispy, approximately 8-10 minutes, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Finally, grate 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese. These ingredients will enhance the delightful texture of your creamy pasta salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing provides the rich base that brings your creamy pasta salad to life.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and gently stir the mixture to coat all the ingredients evenly. This step ensures that every bite of your creamy pasta salad is bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Chill the Salad
Once everything is well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the creamy pasta salad for at least 1-2 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more delicious and enjoyable dish. If you’re in a hurry, it can be served immediately, though it’s best when allowed to rest.

Expert Tips for Creamy Pasta Salad

Control the Saltiness: Avoid adding extra salt to the pasta water to prevent your creamy pasta salad from becoming overly salty, especially with bacon and parmesan included.

Chill for Flavor: Making your salad a day in advance enhances flavor. Just be sure to remix with a little extra dressing before serving to keep it creamy.

Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap peas for corn or add diced chicken. Just ensure the balance of flavors complements the creamy dressing.

Watch the Dressing: If using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, the consistency may vary. Adjust the olive oil for the right creamy texture you desire.

Store Smart: Leftovers can last in the fridge for up to 5 days. To revive any dryness, stir in a bit more dressing before serving.

Storage Tips for Creamy Pasta Salad

Fridge: Store your creamy pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep it fresh, avoid adding all the dressing at once if you plan to have leftovers.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for this creamy pasta salad due to the texture changes, you can freeze separate ingredients like cooked bacon for future use.

Reheating: If you decide to enjoy leftovers, simply let the salad sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. If it seems dry, stir in a little extra dressing to bring back its creaminess.

Prior Preparation: For best flavor, make the creamy pasta salad a day in advance and allow it to chill; the flavors will meld beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

This Creamy Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings! You can cook the pasta and prepare all the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance—just make sure to refrigerate the leftovers for freshness. Combine the cooled pasta with the thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and grated parmesan in an airtight container. To maintain quality, wait to add the dressing until just before serving, as this prevents the salad from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply whisk the dressing together and pour it over the pasta salad; stir well to coat each delectable bite. Enjoy this delicious time-saver while delighting friends and family!

Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Pasta Salad

Customize your creamy pasta salad to match your taste and dietary preferences; each twist offers a unique flavor or texture!

Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add more veggies like roasted bell peppers or artichoke hearts for a hearty salad.
Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise and cheese for plant-based versions, using avocado or cashew cream for creaminess.
Protein Boost: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein and a filling meal.
Flavor Twist: Add fresh herbs like basil or dill to brighten the salad, infusing it with aromatic freshness.
Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to elevate the heat level.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted walnuts or pine nuts for a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
Mediterranean Flair: Substitute the cheese for feta and add kalamata olives and cherry tomatoes for a delightful Mediterranean version.

For more inspiration, if you delight in pasta salads, you might enjoy my take on Italian Pasta Salad or savor a unique blend in Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad. Your options are endless, so have fun experimenting!

What to Serve with Creamy Pasta Salad?

This creamy pasta salad is not just a dish on its own; it’s a vibrant piece of your dining experience, perfect for warm gatherings and cozy evenings alike.

Grilled Chicken: Tender, smoky chicken adds a satisfying protein boost and compliments the salad’s creamy texture beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned, roasted veggies bring earthy flavors and a delightful pop of color to your table, enhancing the meal visually and nutritionally.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread offers a crunchy contrast that invites you to scoop up the creamy goodness with every bite.
Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the salad, providing a crunchy and zesty palate cleanser.
White Sangria: Your meal goes elevated with a chilled, fruity white sangria, adding a light, refreshing flavor that perfects summer gatherings.
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of refreshing fruits adds natural sweetness, making it a wonderful accompaniment to balance the savoriness of the pasta salad.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers create a visually stunning dish that brings tartness and freshness to contrast the creamy salad.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft, sweet cornbread muffins are perfect little bites that give a comforting feel, pairing nicely with the creaminess of the pasta dish.

Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this salad?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like shells, elbows, or rotini are perfect for this creamy pasta salad. They hold the dressing well and mix easily with the other ingredients. If you have a different type of small pasta on hand, feel free to use that instead!

How long can I store the creamy pasta salad in the refrigerator?
Your creamy pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you notice the salad becoming a bit dry, simply stir in a little extra dressing before serving to revive its creamy goodness.

Can I freeze creamy pasta salad?
Very! While freezing the entire salad is not recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze individual ingredients like cooked bacon or peas for later use. To enjoy your salad at its best, stick to refrigerating it and consuming it fresh.

What if my pasta salad tastes too salty?
No worries! If you find your creamy pasta salad a bit too salty, consider adding more cooked pasta or a little extra mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to balance the flavors. You can also try incorporating more fresh ingredients like peas or diced bell peppers to dilute the saltiness.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
You bet! For a vegetarian version, you can simply omit the bacon and use a plant-based mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead. If anyone has allergies, make sure to check for gluten in pasta and dairy in cheese and dressing options, and adjust accordingly.