Pea Pasta Salad

Pea Pasta Salad is the ultimate side dish for any occasion, combining the sweetness of peas with the delightful crunch of Turkey and the creaminess of homemade ranch dressing. Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or family gatherings, this salad not only tastes amazing but also looks colorful and inviting. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s a dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This pea pasta salad comes together in just 20 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich flavors of Turkey and cheddar cheese mix perfectly with the creamy ranch dressing for a delightful taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or serve as a standalone dish; it’s suitable for any meal.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy this salad the next day as it holds up well in the fridge, making lunch planning a breeze.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a BBQ or family dinner, this salad is sure to impress guests of all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To make your pea pasta salad successfully, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools to assist you in preparing this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cooking pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly.
• Cooking pot: Used to boil the pasta shells ensuring they are cooked perfectly before adding them to the salad.

Ingredients

• 8 oz. mini pasta shells (cooked and cooled)
• 2 cups frozen peas (frozen or refrigerator thawed, but they began as frozen)
• 1 cup real mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 6 strips Turkey  (cooked and chopped into small pieces)
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pea Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Turkey

To begin this pea pasta salad, cook and chop 6 strips of crispy Turkey . If you prefer convenience, pre-cooked Turkey or Turkey bits may be used. However, we recommend fresh ingredients for enhanced flavor. An air fryer works great for quickly cooking Turkey.

Step 2: Prepare the Mini Pasta Shells

While the Turkey cooks, boil mini pasta shells according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them with cold water. If the shells stick together before moving on to the next step, simply re-rinse them until they separate easily.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Large Bowl

Once your Turkey is crispy and cooled down, chop it into small bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, add real mayonnaise and ranch seasoning. Stir these together until well mixed.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Once your dressing is combined well, add shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, crispy Turkey pieces, cooled mini pasta shells, and frozen peas to the mixing bowl.

Step 5: Mix Thoroughly

Using a spatula, gently stir all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 6: Refrigerate Before Serving

For best results, refrigerate your pea pasta salad for 2-4 hours or overnight before serving. This allows flavors to meld while keeping peas firm yet tender.

Step 7: Garnish Before Serving

Top your salad with additional shredded cheddar cheese and chopped Turkey for an extra touch just before serving if desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your refreshing Pea Pasta Salad! It promises to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve Pea Pasta Salad

Pea pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, attending a potluck, or just looking for a refreshing side for dinner, this creamy salad fits perfectly.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak to complement the flavors.
• Pair it with burgers for a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.

In Wraps

• Use pea pasta salad as a filling in wraps or pita pockets for a quick and tasty lunch.
• Pair with lettuce and your favorite proteins for added nutrition.

On a Picnic

• Pack the salad into individual portions in mason jars for an easy picnic treat.
• Combine with crackers or breadsticks for a complete meal outdoors.

For Meal Prep

• Divide servings into containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.

How to Perfect Pea Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect pea pasta salad involves a few simple tricks. With these tips, you’ll ensure your dish is flavorful and enjoyable every time.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh peas and enhances flavor significantly compared to frozen options.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating for several hours allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt or ranch seasoning as needed for extra kick.
• Add Texture: Consider adding nuts or seeds for an additional crunch that pairs well with creaminess.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or corn to boost nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Pea Pasta Salad

Pea pasta salad pairs wonderfully with many other dishes, making it an ideal addition to any meal. Here are some great side options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add smokiness and balance out the creaminess of the salad.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast; consider using a vinegar-based dressing.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings sweetness and complements the savory elements of the pea pasta salad perfectly.
4. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds warmth and flavor; it’s great for scooping up leftovers!
5. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips offer texture; try BBQ-flavored chips for an extra zing.
6. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs are protein-packed and match beautifully with creamy salads like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a delicious Pea Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the pasta: This can lead to mushy shells that don’t hold up well in the salad. Always cook the pasta al dente and rinse it in cold water after draining.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap mayonnaise or can ruin the flavor of your salad. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
• Skipping the chilling time: Serving this salad immediately can result in a less flavorful dish. Allowing it to chill for several hours enhances the flavors and texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Relying solely on ranch seasoning may leave your salad bland. Taste and adjust seasoning as you mix, and consider adding salt or pepper if needed.
• Ignoring leftovers: Pea Pasta Salad tastes even better the next day! Don’t be afraid to save leftovers for lunch or snacks; just store them properly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pea Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days.
• Make sure to label containers with the date for freshness tracking.

Freezing Pea Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to changes in texture, particularly of peas and pasta.
• If you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before eating, but expect some texture loss.

Reheating Pea Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer salad into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a pan over low heat, stir in salad gently until warmed through—about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Pea Pasta Salad?

Yes! You can add other ingredients like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or different types of cheese for extra flavor and texture.

How do I make a healthier version of Pea Pasta Salad?

To make a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and turkey instead of regular .

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh peas can add wonderful flavor to your Pea Pasta Salad; just blanch them briefly before adding.

What dishes pair well with Pea Pasta Salad?

This salad complements grilled meats like chicken or burgers perfectly and makes a great side dish for summer barbecues.

Final Thoughts

Pea Pasta Salad is not only creamy and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with seasonal ingredients or personal favorites. It’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, ensuring there’s always something delightful on your table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the fresh flavors that will please everyone at your next gathering!

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Pea Pasta Salad

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Pea Pasta Salad is a delightful, creamy side dish that brings together the sweetness of peas, the crispiness of Turkey , and the richness of homemade ranch dressing. This vibrant salad is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and easy recipe that everyone will adore. With its colorful appearance and delicious flavor profile, Pea Pasta Salad is sure to impress guests of all ages. Plus, it makes fantastic leftovers, allowing you to enjoy it again the next day!

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz mini pasta shells (cooked and cooled)
• 2 cups frozen peas
• 1 cup real mayonnaise
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 6 strips Turkey (cooked and chopped)
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the Turkey until crispy and chop it into small pieces.
2. Boil mini pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and ranch seasoning.
4. Add cheese, green onions, Turkey, pasta shells, and peas to the bowl.
5. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
6. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with additional cheese and if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 25mg