How to make a bacon pasta salad?

To make a delicious bacon pasta salad, start by cooking your pasta until al dente. Add peas in the final minute of boiling, then drain and cool. Prepare a creamy dressing using mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of cayenne. Toss everything with cheddar cheese, chives, and crisped bacon. The key is balancing the creamy base with smoky, savory toppings—like in this Cheddar Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad recipe.

What is pea pasta made of?

In traditional pasta salad, “pea pasta” refers to pasta mixed with sweet green peas. However, there are also pasta noodles made entirely from pea flour—especially green or yellow split peas—offering a gluten-free and protein-rich alternative. In this recipe, we use standard pasta shells combined with frozen peas for color, texture, and a touch of sweetness.

How long to eat pasta salad?

For best taste and safety, pasta salad should be eaten within 3 days of preparation. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container. After sitting out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it’s best to discard it, especially if it contains mayo or dairy. Always give it a quick stir before serving, and refresh with a bit of mayo or vinegar if needed.

What is in pea salad?

Classic pea salad typically includes sweet green peas, cheddar cheese, red onion, and a creamy mayo-based dressing. Some versions also include bacon, hard-boiled eggs, or sour cream. Cheddar Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad is a heartier version that blends these traditional elements with pasta for a filling, flavorful upgrade.

Cheddar Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad – 1 Powerful Summer Favorite

Description

Cheddar Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad is creamy, tangy, and loaded with bacon, cheese, and peas. Perfect for parties, lunches, or weeknight meals.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon kosher salt (for pasta water)
1 pound medium pasta shells
1 1/2 cups frozen peas
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons sliced fresh chives
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon alternative

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, adding the peas during the last minute of cooking. Drain and let cool.In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and peas. Pour the dressing over the top and add shredded cheddar, chives, and the crumbled turkey or vegetarian bacon.Toss everything together until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Pasta and Grain Salads
Method: Boiling, Mixing
Cuisine: American