This BLT Pasta Salad is a fun twist on the classic sandwich! It mixes pasta with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed together with a tasty dressing. Yum!
It’s so colorful and easy to whip up for a picnic or a quick dinner. I love making extra because leftovers are perfect for lunch—just grab a fork and you’re set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini is my go-to because its twists hold onto the dressing well. You can easily swap it for penne, fusilli, or any short pasta you prefer. Just stick with pasta shapes that can capture bits of veggies and dressing!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds that essential flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. For a vegetarian version, use chopped sun-dried tomatoes or smoked tempeh to mimic the taste!
Cherry Tomatoes: A variety of tomato colors adds beauty to the dish. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, diced regular tomatoes or halved grape tomatoes will also do the trick. Just add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if using regular tomatoes.
Lettuce: Romaine is crisp and refreshing, but you can substitute it with spinach or mixed greens. Just make sure whatever lettuce you use is sturdy enough to hold up when tossed.
Dressing Ingredients: Mayonnaise brings creaminess, but you could use Greek yogurt for a lighter taste. If you’re vegan, consider using a plant-based mayo instead. Lemon juice brightens flavors, but vinegar can also work if you have it on hand.
How Do I Keep My Pasta Salad from Getting Soggy?
A common challenge with pasta salad is avoiding sogginess. Here are some easy tips to keep your salad fresh:
- **Rinse the pasta**: After cooking, rinse the pasta in cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it firm.
- **Add veggies just before serving**: To keep cucumbers and lettuce fresh, add them right before serving instead of mixing them in early.
- **Store separately**: If making ahead, consider storing pasta and veggies in separate containers, then mix right before serving.
- **Limit moisture**: Pat dry any fresh veggies before adding them to the salad to avoid extra liquid.
Using these techniques will help maintain a deliciously crunchy texture in your BLT Pasta Salad!
BLT Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BLT Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes of prep time. You’ll need another 30 minutes to chill it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to blend. In total, set aside about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This helps stop the cooking process. Set it aside to drain completely.
2. Fry the Bacon:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the bacon slices. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy and flavorful, usually about 6-8 minutes. Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. After it’s cooled down, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Stir until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Next, add the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped romaine lettuce, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. This is where the magic happens—everything comes together!
5. Toss and Adjust:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed to elevate those flavors just right.
6. Garnish and Chill:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This is an important step, as it allows all the delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy, serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a tasty meal at home!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful BLT Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works just as well. Cook it according to package instructions, and ensure to rinse it with cold water after cooking to prevent it from becoming sticky.
How Long Can I Store Leftover BLT Pasta Salad?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the lettuce may lose its crispness over time!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or crispy chickpeas, and use a dairy-free mayo and yogurt alternative. The flavor will still be delicious!
What Can I Add for Extra Crunch?
If you’re looking for added crunch, consider tossing in some diced bell peppers, thinly sliced radishes, or even sunflower seeds. They add a nice texture contrast and flavor boost!
