Creamy Pea Pasta Salad

This easy pea salad is a breeze to prepare because it relies on simple ingredients you can find anywhere. Once you cook and cool the pasta, you’ll mix up the creamy dressing, then mix in the rest of the ingredients. Chill it in the fridge to allow the flavors to develop, and you’ll have a delicious side dish that’s packed with refreshing tastes and textures.

Pea pasta salad is a versatile dish perfect for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, and even family dinners. Its refreshing and light texture and color make it visually appealing during the warmer months to serve alongside Air Fryer Chicken Breasts or a Healthy Turkey Sloppy Joe. No matter how you serve it, this easy pasta salad with peas is a true go-to side dish recipe! 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s made with frozen peas, which are already cooked! This saves you time in the kitchen and makes a consistent pasta salad. 
• Its vibrant colors and flavors capture the essence of spring and summer, making it a seasonal favorite.
• The creamy dressing adds a bold and zesty tang that complements the peas perfectly. 
• Great for when you need a side dish that doesn’t have to be warm. This pasta salad gets chilled in the fridge and is served cold, so it stays refreshing. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Mini Pasta Shells - These provide a tender base, ensuring the salad is hearty and filling.
• Mayonnaise - Creates a creamy and rich foundation for the dressing, adding depth and smoothness to the dish.
• Apple Cider Vinegar - Introduces a tangy brightness that balances the creamy mayonnaise and elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Black Pepper - Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients and bring out their best notes.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix - Offers a burst of zesty, herby flavors that give the salad its signature kick.
• Frozen Peas - Add a sweet and fresh crunch, infusing the salad with vibrant green hues and a burst of spring freshness.
• Green Onions - Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of fresh green color. 
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese - Introduces a salty, creamy bite that complements the peas and adds a touch of richness to the mix.
• Cooked Bacon - Gives a savory, smoky crunch that contrasts with the soft pasta and creamy dressing.

How To Make Creamy Pea Pasta Salad

Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta and cook as per the directions on the box. Drain the water and set aside while you assemble the rest of the ingredients. 

Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and ranch seasoning. Mix until well combined. 

Mix the salad: To the bowl with the dressing, add the cooked pasta, peas, green onions, cheddar cheese, and bacon. Stir until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours before serving. Stir before serving. Enjoy! 

Recipe Tips

• Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente – this prevents it from becoming too soft or mushy when mixed with the other ingredients and dressing.
• When draining the pasta, rinse it briefly under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down faster.
• For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, giving the dressing a tangy twist and cutting some calories..
• The bacon should be cooked to a crispy consistency so it maintains its texture when mixed into the creamy salad.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of ranch seasoning mix according to your taste preference; starting with less and adding more can help you achieve the perfect balance.
• If you're planning to serve the salad outdoors, keep it chilled as long as possible to maintain freshness and prevent the mayo from separating.
• Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing and ensure every serving is evenly coated and flavorful

Variations

• For a gluten-free alternative, opt for gluten-free pasta varieties made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas.
• If you're not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use a blend of sour cream and Greek yogurt for a tangier and equally creamy dressing.
• Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a hint of smoked paprika to give the salad an extra kick.
• Replace bacon with grilled chicken or tuna for a different protein twist, or omit meats entirely for a vegetarian version.
• Fresh dill or basil can be added to the salad for an aromatic, herby touch that complements the freshness of the peas.
• Swap out cheddar cheese for feta or goat cheese to give the dish a Mediterranean flair and a slightly tangier flavor profile.
• Sun-dried tomatoes or chopped bell peppers can be incorporated for additional color, sweetness, and a layer of complexity.
• Add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a nutty flavor and crunch. 

Storage

Store any leftover pea pasta salad in an airtight container and consume it within 3-4 days. If the salad is dry after storing, you can freshen it up with a small dollop of mayonnaise or a splash of milk and give it a good stir before serving. Freezing is not recommended for this pea pasta salad due to the mayonnaise base, which can separate and become grainy upon thawing. The texture of the pasta and peas may also become mushy or soggy after being frozen and thawed.

FAQ

More Easy Pasta Salad Recipes

• Classic Italian Pasta Salad
• Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad
• Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
• Balsamic Pasta Salad

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