Description
This Creamy Pasta Salad features tender noodles, sweet peas, and a smooth, tangy dressing for a refreshing and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for warm weather or any casual meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz small pasta noodles
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Let cool completely.
- Ensure the peas are thawed and the parmesan is grated.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, peas, and parmesan cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1–2 hours to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Add diced bell peppers, corn, or cherry tomatoes for extra texture and color.
- Mix in cubed cheese for a richer flavor.
- Use different pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle for variety.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayo to lighten the dressing.
- If the salad dries out in the fridge, stir in a bit more mayo or olive oil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
