Pasta Salad With Peas
A vibrant pasta salad featuring peas, romano cheese, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings with fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta over a colander containing frozen peas to cool both together.
- Allow the pasta and peas to cool completely.
- Mix the cooled pasta and peas with mayonnaise and grated romano cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. If you want a creamier texture, substitute sour cream for half of the mayonnaise. To make this dish more colorful, try adding diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish and makes an excellent side dish for summer barbecues. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or as part of a buffet spread featuring American recipes like Corn Meal Batter Rolls.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, add a splash of mayonnaise or a dollop of sour cream to refresh it. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the peas and pasta may degrade upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Salad With Peas contains roughly 18 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While romano cheese adds a nice flavor, you can substitute with parmesan or feta for a different taste. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the overall flavor profile, so choose one that complements your preferences.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative or make your own using blended silken tofu, lemon juice, and a bit of mustard. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of romano cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize your pasta salad with other vegetables such as diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even roasted red peppers. Adding a variety of vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).