Creamy Pea Bacon Pasta Salad (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta Salad
01 -
400 g pasta shells
02 -
450 g bacon, diced
03 -
150 g frozen sweet peas, thawed
04 -
75 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
→ Creamy Dressing
05 -
240 ml mayonnaise
06 -
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
07 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
08 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
10 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
11 -
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 -
1 teaspoon sugar
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells until al dente, according to package instructions. Simultaneously, cook diced bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Drain both pasta and bacon separately. Drizzle pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and allow both to cool for several minutes.
02 -
In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and sugar until smooth, creamy and fully combined. Set aside 80 ml of the dressing to refresh the salad prior to serving.
03 -
In a large bowl, gently toss cooled pasta shells, crispy bacon, thawed peas, and the majority of the prepared dressing until well coated.
04 -
Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until distributed. If making ahead, cover and refrigerate. Before serving, stir in reserved dressing to ensure the salad remains creamy.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
Reserve a portion of dressing to restore creaminess just before serving if prepared in advance.