Pea & Pasta Salad

Looking to add a refreshing and vibrant twist to your salad repertoire? Look no further than the fresh combination of pea and pasta salad. This vibrant and versatile dish brings together the satisfying textures of al dente pasta and tender peas, tossed in a harmonious medley of flavors.

Whether you’re preparing a light lunch, a side dish for a summer barbecue, or a potluck contribution, this pea and pasta salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, showcasing the best of seasonal ingredients and offering a burst of color and taste in every bite.

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What is a pea and pasta salad?

A pea and pasta salad is a delightful dish that combines cooked pasta and tender peas, tossed together with a variety of flavorful ingredients to create a refreshing and satisfying salad.

The salad can be customized with additional vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers, and often includes a tangy dressing to tie all the flavors together.

You may also really enjoy this pea salad without bacon.

What do I serve with a pea and pasta salad?

A pea and pasta salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, complementing different flavors and textures. Here are a few suggestions for what you can serve alongside a pea and pasta salad:

Grilled Proteins

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon make excellent protein accompaniments to the salad. Their smoky flavors and juicy textures create a satisfying contrast to the refreshing salad. Try this salad with this herb and honey grilled chicken tenders recipe.

Sandwiches or Wraps

Serve the pea and pasta salad as a side dish to a sandwich or wrap. It adds a fresh and colorful element to your meal. Options like turkey, ham, or vegetarian sandwiches work well.

Barbecue Favorites

The salad makes a great side dish for barbecued meats like ribs, burgers, or sausages. The coolness and crunchiness of the salad balance out the richness of the grilled flavors.

What ingredients do I need for a pea and pasta salad?

• Elbow macaroni
• Bacon bits
• Green onions
• Frozen peas
• Mayonnaise
• Ranch salad dressing
• Shredded Colby jack cheese

Helpful tools for this recipe

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking pot
• Cutting board
• Knife set

How do I make a pea and pasta salad?

In a large mixing bowl, add the macaroni, bacon bits, green onions, peas, and shredded cheese. 

In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise and ranch dressing. Whisk together until well combined. 

Fold in the mayonnaise mixture into the large mixing bowl. 

Toss until ingredients are well covered.

How should I store pasta and peas salad?

Place the pea pasta salad in an airtight container. Make sure it is cooled down to room temperature before sealing the container and transferring it to the refrigerator. Refrigerate the salad promptly to prevent bacterial growth.

If you prefer to maintain the desired texture of the salad, you can store the dressing separately and add it just before serving. This helps to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft or soggy.

How long does macaroni salad keep?

When stored properly as described above, your salad should stay fresh for 3-4 days. 

Making peas and pasta salad is a great way to bring together the vibrant flavors of tender peas and pasta. This dish offers a refreshing and satisfying option for light lunches, potlucks, or summer gatherings. 

With its customizable ingredients and dressings, you can tailor the salad to suit your taste preferences and experiment with different flavor combinations. By following proper storage guidelines, you can ensure the longevity of your pea salad, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness for days to come. 

Other salad recipes to try

Fuji Apple Salad Recipe

Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe

Jello Ribbon Salad