This BLT Pasta Salad is a fun twist on the classic sandwich! It combines creamy pasta with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. Perfect for picnics!
It’s super easy to whip up, and you can make it ahead of time. Just mix it all together and let it chill. Why does pasta always taste better when it’s in a salad? 🍅🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral pasta holds the dressing well and adds fun texture. If you don’t have rotini, any short pasta like fusilli, elbow macaroni, or penne works nicely, too.
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives that classic BLT flavor. You can swap it for turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative for a lighter option.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring sweetness and color to the salad. If cherry tomatoes are out of season, diced regular tomatoes will do, or even canned diced tomatoes, drained well.
Romaine Lettuce: It provides crunch and freshness. If you prefer, you can use spinach or mixed salad greens for a different flavor.
Mayonnaise: This creates a creamy dressing. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a healthier, tangy version. If vegan, use a plant-based mayo.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is key in this recipe. Aim for al dente, which means it’ll still have a slight bite. Here’s how:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding your pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions, but start checking a minute or two early.
- Once tender but firm, drain immediately in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Let it cool completely before adding to the salad to help the dressing stick without making it soggy.
With these tips, your BLT Pasta Salad will be tasty and texturally balanced! Enjoy making it!
BLT Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tablespoons sour cream (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BLT Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. Overall, you’ll need about 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish that’s perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a little bite. After draining the pasta, rinse it under cold water to cool it quickly. Set it aside to let it drain completely.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the bacon slices. Cook until the bacon is crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, carefully transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. Allow it to cool, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (if you’re using it), lemon juice (or vinegar), sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until it’s smooth and well combined—this will be your delicious dressing!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the fun! Toss the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce into the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix everything together, making sure all the ingredients are coated in the creamy dressing without breaking the tomatoes or lettuce.
5. Adjust & Chill:
Give the pasta salad a taste and see if it needs more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Adjust to your liking! Once you’re satisfied, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors come together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a little toss again. Scoop it into bowls and enjoy your refreshing, delicious BLT Pasta Salad—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner!
This dish captures the classic BLT flavors and combines them with hearty pasta for a delightful twist. Enjoy every bite! 🥗
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great for its shape and texture, you can easily substitute it with any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or even elbow macaroni based on your preference or what you have on hand.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, so it’s perfect for lunch the next day!
Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the salad up to a day in advance, but wait to add the lettuce until just before serving to keep it crunchy. Just mix everything else and store it in the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for mayonnaise, adding a nice tang. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan mayonnaise or avocado for creaminess.