Pasta Salad with Peas is a refreshing, flavor-packed cold pasta side dish that combines the creamy texture of mayo and sour cream with the sweet pop of peas. This delightful salad is made with rigatoni, crispy bacon, and fresh herbs, making it an ideal dish for BBQs, potlucks, or family dinners. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing salad that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details of this easy-to-make recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad with Peas
This pasta salad with peas is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Here are six reasons why you’ll adore it:
- Quick to make: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful: The tangy sour cream and mayo dressing complements the peas perfectly.
- Nutritious: Packed with nutrients, this cold pasta salad with peas is a healthy option.
- Crowd-pleaser: It’s a perfect dish for gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults.
- Customizable: You can easily add or substitute ingredients to suit your taste.
- Easy to store: Great for meal prep, it stays fresh in the fridge for days.
Ingredients for Pasta Salad with Peas
Gather these items:
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta (or penne, rotini, shells)
- 1 cup frozen green peas (thawed)
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Pasta Salad with Peas Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Step 2: Let frozen peas thaw at room temperature or run hot pasta water over them while draining.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 4: Add the cooled pasta, peas, bacon, parsley, and chives into the bowl. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Step 5: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and dressing thicken.
- Step 6: Stir before serving. Add extra herbs or a splash of milk if needed to loosen the dressing.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad with Peas
Keep these in mind:
- Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep.
- Can substitute pasta shapes as desired.
- For added flavor, consider including lemon zest or a sprinkle of cheese.
Best Ways to Serve Pasta Salad with Peas
Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your dish:
- Serve it chilled alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
- Top with additional herbs for a burst of color and flavor.
- Pair with a light vinaigrette for a tangy twist.
How to Store and Reheat Pasta Salad with Peas
This pasta salad with peas is easy to store. Simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep. If you notice the dressing thickening, add a splash of milk or yogurt to loosen it up before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pasta Salad with Peas
What is pasta salad with peas?
This pea pasta salad recipe is a cold dish combining pasta, peas, and a creamy dressing, often enjoyed as a side dish.
Can I make pasta salad with peas ahead of time?
Yes! This vegetarian pasta salad with peas can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.
How do I avoid common mistakes with pasta salad with peas?
To ensure your salad is perfect, rinse the pasta after cooking to stop the cooking process, and let the peas thaw completely before mixing.
Variations of Pasta Salad with Peas You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with these variations:
- Add roasted vegetables for a garden pasta salad with peas twist.
- Incorporate feta cheese for a salty contrast.
- Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category, or try making spaghetti with garlic and oil for a quick meal. If you’re looking for a refreshing salad, our Mediterranean chickpea salad is a great option. Don’t forget to explore our homemade tomato sauce for a perfect pairing!
For more information on the health benefits of peas, you can visit Healthline.
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Pasta Salad with Peas: 6 Reasons to Love This Creamy Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Pasta Salad With Peas and Herbs is a refreshing, flavor-packed cold pasta side dish made with rigatoni, bacon, peas, and a tangy sour-cream-and-mayo dressing.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta (or penne, rotini, shells)
- 1 cup frozen green peas (thawed)
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Let frozen peas thaw at room temperature or run hot pasta water over them while draining.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta, peas, bacon, parsley, and chives into the bowl. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and dressing thicken.
- Stir before serving. Add extra herbs or a splash of milk if needed to loosen the dressing.
Notes
- Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep.
- Can substitute pasta shapes as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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