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bacon, peas, and parmesan pasta salad in a large bowl with two wooden serving spoons

Bacon, Peas & Parmesan Pasta Salad

The bright, creamy, lemony dressing pulls this pasta salad together perfectly.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Serves 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb small pasta I like farfalle
  • 1.5 cup frozen peas thawed
  • 7-8 slices hickory-smoked bacon
  • ½ cup grated parmesan
  • ¼ cup shaved parmesan
  • 1/4 cup chives chopped

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of sugar

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment, then add the slices of bacon in a single layer.
  • Bake in the oven until crispy, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and transfer to a paper-towel lined plate. Once cool, crumble or roughly chop.
  • Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta, and cook according to package instructions, or until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Add to a large bowl and toss with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • Make the Dressing: Add the mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and sugar to a bowl. Thoroughly whisk together and keep in the fridge until ready to use.
  • Assemble: Add the peas, bacon, chives, grated parmesan, and shaved parmesan to the large bowl of pasta.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to combine. Serve immediately, or keep chilled in the fridge until ready to serve!