Pea Pasta Salad is a delightful and creamy dish that perfectly combines the freshness of peas with the savory crunch of Turkey Bacon. This vibrant salad is ideal for potlucks, BBQs, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. Its unique flavor profile comes from the tangy ranch seasoning and rich mayonnaise, making it a standout side dish. Whether served chilled at a summer picnic or as a comforting addition to your dinner table, this pea pasta salad will surely be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together quickly.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of creamy dressing, crispy Turkey Bacon, and sweet peas creates an irresistible taste.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for BBQs, potlucks, or family dinners; it fits any occasion.
- Make-Ahead Option: This salad tastes even better when prepared in advance, making it great for busy days.
- Delicious Leftovers: Enjoy tasty leftovers for lunch the next day without compromising flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making Pea Pasta Salad, gather your tools to streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Cooking pot
- Strainer
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula makes mixing easy and helps ensure every piece of pasta and pea gets coated with dressing.
- Cooking pot: Necessary for boiling the mini pasta shells to the perfect tenderness.
- Strainer: Helps drain excess water from the pasta after cooking.
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious Pea Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz. mini pasta shells (cooked and cooled)
- 2 cups frozen peas (frozen or refrigerator thawed)
- 1 cup real mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 6 strips Turkey Bacon (cooked and chopped into small pieces)
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
How to Make Pea Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon
Cook 6 strips of crispy Turkey Bacon until they are nice and crunchy. You can use pre-cooked Turkey Bacon or bits if you’re short on time. However, fresh ingredients will give you the best flavor. If using an air fryer, this method works quickly too.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta Shells
While cooking the bacon, boil mini pasta shells according to package directions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to cool down. If they stick together at any point, rinse again until they are separated.
Step 3: Chop the Bacon
Once your Turkey Bacon is fully cooked, allow it to cool before chopping it into small bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, add real mayonnaise and ranch seasoning. Stir them together until they are well combined.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
After mixing your dressing, add in shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, crispy Turkey Bacon, cooled pasta shells, and frozen peas.
Step 6: Stir Everything Together
Using a spatula, gently fold all ingredients together until everything is well mixed and coated with dressing.
Step 7: Chill Before Serving
Pea Pasta Salad tastes best when served cold! Refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours or overnight. This chilling period allows the peas to soften while still retaining their firmness.
Step 8: Add Extra Garnish (Optional)
Before serving, top your salad with additional shredded cheddar cheese and extra pieces of Turkey Bacon if desired.
This scrumptious Pea Pasta Salad serves approximately 6-8 people and is sure to be enjoyed by all!
How to Serve Pea Pasta Salad
Pea pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a family dinner, this creamy salad pairs wonderfully with many meals.
As a Side Dish
- BBQ Favorites: This salad complements grilled meats such as burgers and hot dogs perfectly.
- Picnic Delight: Pack it in a cooler for outdoor gatherings; it stays fresh and tasty.
- Potluck Winner: Its vibrant colors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser at any potluck.
As a Main Course
- Light Lunch Option: Serve it on its own for a quick lunch that’s filling yet refreshing.
- Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Garnished with Extras
- Cheese Topping: Add more shredded cheese on top before serving for an extra cheesy kick.
- Herb Sprinkles: Fresh dill or parsley can elevate the flavor profile and add freshness.
How to Perfect Pea Pasta Salad
Creating the perfect pea pasta salad requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh peas and real mayonnaise will significantly improve taste compared to substitutes.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances flavors and improves texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your dressing before mixing; feel free to adjust ranch seasoning according to your preference.
- Mix Gently: Stir carefully to avoid breaking the pasta shells while ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Add Crunch with Nuts: Consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an unexpected crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Pea Pasta Salad
Pea pasta salad pairs well with numerous side dishes, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some suggestions that complement its creamy flavor.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, peppers, and asparagus provide a smoky contrast.
- Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw balances the creaminess of the salad wonderfully.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and flavor pairing with pasta dishes.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory dishes.
- Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs offer protein and richness that pair well with pea pasta salad.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a summer vibe and is always loved at barbecues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pea Pasta Salad, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using warm pasta: Always ensure your mini pasta shells are completely cooled before mixing with other ingredients. Warm pasta can cause the dressing to become runny.
- Neglecting the peas: Using fresh peas instead of frozen can alter the texture and taste. Frozen peas are perfectly fine and retain their sweetness when thawed properly.
- Overdressing: Adding too much mayonnaise can overwhelm the salad. Start with less and add more if needed, ensuring all ingredients are coated without being soggy.
- Skipping the chilling time: Not refrigerating your salad allows flavors to remain separate. Chill for at least 2-4 hours or overnight for optimal taste.
- Ignoring seasoning: Don’t overlook the importance of ranch seasoning in balancing flavors. Adjust according to personal preference, but be careful not to overpower the dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Pea Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure it is well covered to prevent drying out.
Freezing Pea Pasta Salad
- Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its creamy dressing.
- If you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container, but be aware of texture changes upon thawing.
- Consume within 1-2 months if frozen.
Reheating Pea Pasta Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed as desired.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a pan over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, taking care not to overcook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Pea Pasta Salad that might help you in your preparation.
Can I use other types of pasta for Pea Pasta Salad?
You can definitely substitute mini pasta shells with other small pasta shapes like elbows or penne. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente.
How can I make this Pea Pasta Salad healthier?
Consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
Is this Pea Pasta Salad suitable for potlucks?
Absolutely! Pea Pasta Salad is a great potluck dish because it’s easy to transport and serve cold. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
How should I customize my Pea Pasta Salad?
Feel free to add ingredients like diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even grilled chicken for added flavor and texture variations.
What goes well with Pea Pasta Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, BBQ dishes, or as part of a picnic spread. It complements summer meals perfectly!
Final Thoughts
Pea Pasta Salad is an incredibly versatile dish perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to lively potlucks. Its creamy texture combined with tasty Turkey Bacon and fresh peas offers delightful flavors that everyone will love. Try customizing it with your favorite veggies or proteins for even more variety! Enjoy this refreshing dish as a side or a light meal that’s sure to impress!
Pea Pasta Salad
Pea Pasta Salad is a vibrant and creamy dish that combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the savory crunch of Turkey Bacon. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or family gatherings, this salad stands out with its tangy ranch seasoning and rich mayonnaise dressing. Served chilled, it offers a delightful balance of flavors, making it not just a side dish but a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. With easy preparation and simple ingredients, it’s a versatile addition to any meal that can be made ahead of time for busy days. Enjoy this refreshing salad at your next summer picnic or cozy dinner!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6-8 people 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz mini pasta shells (cooked and cooled)
- 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 1 cup real mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 6 strips Turkey Bacon (cooked and chopped)
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
Instructions
- Cook Turkey Bacon until crispy; set aside to cool before chopping.
- Boil mini pasta shells according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and ranch seasoning.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, chopped Turkey Bacon, cooled pasta shells, and frozen peas to the dressing.
- Gently fold all ingredients together until well mixed.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. You can swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a healthier option. This salad is best served cold; refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
