Welcome to my cozy kitchen corner on the internet, where today we’re diving into the delightful “Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe.” This dish is a tribute to the colorful, laughter-filled meals of my childhood, spent in a bustling Mexican-American household in Asheville. With a blend of creamy textures and smoky bacon, this pasta salad is a perfect reflection of my belief that food should be both comforting and exciting. Living now in Charleston with Marco, my husband, and our golden retriever, Biscuit, I often find myself recreating these moments of familial warmth with every dish I prepare. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe
This Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad is your new favorite go-to for picnics, potlucks, or just a simple weeknight dinner. What I adore about this recipe is its versatility and the way it brings people together, much like the family meals I cherished growing up. With every bite, you’ll experience the perfect combination of crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a luscious creamy dressing that ties everything together. This dish is not just about feeding the body, but also about nurturing the soul—something I learned from my abuela as I stood by her side in the kitchen, eager to learn and savor every moment.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe
Gathering your ingredients is like setting the stage for a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 oz pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional)
Feel free to swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt if you fancy a healthier twist, or add a handful of chopped scallions for an extra punch of flavor. This flexibility is what makes cooking so joyous and accessible.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile per serving (approximately 1 cup):
- Calories: 340 per serving
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
These numbers are a reminder that deliciousness doesn’t always have to come at the expense of nutrition—balance is key, just like the harmony of spices in my abuela’s kitchen.
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Indulge in the Ultimate Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Delight
Learn how to make delicious Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is like setting the stage for a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 oz pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional)
Feel free to swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt if you fancy a healthier twist, or add a handful of chopped scallions for an extra punch of flavor. This flexibility is what makes cooking so joyous and accessible.
Instructions
Creating this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps to bring it all together:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and chopped dill (if using) to the bowl. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your personal preference—after all, cooking is an evolving art.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
As I learned from my grandmother, the best dishes often come from trusting your senses, so don’t hesitate to tweak as you go!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe
Creating this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps to bring it all together:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta, thawed peas, crumbled bacon, and chopped dill (if using) to the bowl. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your personal preference—after all, cooking is an evolving art.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
As I learned from my grandmother, the best dishes often come from trusting your senses, so don’t hesitate to tweak as you go!
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe
Here are a few tips to ensure your pasta salad is a hit every time:
– Ensure your pasta is rinsed under cold water after cooking. This stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming mushy.
– Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor. The smokiness adds depth to the dish.
– Make it ahead of time! This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.
These small adjustments can transform your dish from great to extraordinary, just like the secret tweaks my abuela would make to her recipes.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal, or pair it with a fresh garden salad to keep things light. It’s also perfect as a standalone dish for lunch. In our household, it’s a staple at barbecues and family gatherings, reminiscent of the lively meals back home in Asheville.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When it’s time to enjoy it again, let the salad sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. If it seems a bit dry, just stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or a splash of apple cider vinegar to revive its creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe?
The main ingredients for Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe?
The total time to make Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe?
Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories, much like the ones I hold dear from my childhood. In every bite, you’ll find a piece of my culinary journey—from the bustling family kitchen in Asheville to my own cozy kitchen in Charleston. I hope this recipe brings as much joy and warmth to your table as it does to mine. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and laughter!
