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Creamy Spring Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad

creamy spring pea and bacon pasta salad - featured image
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A quick and easy pasta salad featuring crispy bacon, sweet spring peas, and a creamy tangy dressing, perfect for picnics and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 1 cup (150 grams) frozen peas, thawed (or fresh peas in season)
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 g) of rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside in the colander to drain fully.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 6 thick-cut bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. If using frozen peas, rinse under cold water to thaw quickly and drain well. If fresh, blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes then cool immediately in ice water to keep their bright green color.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise, 1/4 cup (60 ml) Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste until smooth and creamy.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, thawed peas, and chopped bacon. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Avoid overcooking pasta; rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and prevent mushiness. Cook bacon low and slow for perfect crispiness. Save bacon fat for other uses. Dressing can be thinned with a splash of water or milk if too thick. Prepare a few hours ahead and toss before serving to refresh flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, bacon pasta salad, spring pea salad, picnic recipe, easy pasta salad, quick pasta salad

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/creamy-spring-pea-and-bacon-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-perfect-for-picnics/