Irresistible BLT Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer Fun

Summer is the season for vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and light dishes. Imagine biting into a bowl of BLT Pasta Salad, where crispy bacon meets juicy tomatoes and crunchy lettuce, all tossed in a creamy dressing. It’s like a picnic in a bowl, perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or even just a Tuesday night dinner that deserves to feel like a celebration. For more inspiration, check out this snacks and appetizers recipe.

Now, let me take you back to that unforgettable summer afternoon when I first crafted this masterpiece. Picture it: friends gathered in the backyard, laughter echoing as we reminisced about our childhood antics. As I unveiled my BLT Pasta Salad, their eyes lit up with excitement—who knew pasta could wear bacon so well? This dish has been a staple ever since, making every occasion feel just a little more special.

I remember the first time I served this pasta salad; everyone went back for seconds and thirds!

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Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite shape; I love using rotini for its ability to hold onto the dressing.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe tomatoes; they add sweetness and color to your salad.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon is essential; cook it until golden brown for an irresistible crunch.
• Lettuce: Use fresh romaine or iceberg for that satisfying crunch and vibrant green color.
• Mayonnaise: A creamy base enhances flavor; consider using Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the bacon.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust to taste based on your preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add about 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Crisp the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook about 6 strips of bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and let them cool before crumbling into bite-sized pieces.

Chop the Veggies: Dice your cherry tomatoes into halves or quarters depending on size. Chop about 1-2 cups of lettuce into bite-sized pieces.

Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, combine half a cup of mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, chopped tomatoes, and lettuce. Pour in dressing and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Season & Serve!: Add salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

And there you have it—a delightful BLT Pasta Salad that not only satisfies cravings but also brings smiles to everyone at your table! Enjoy this dish at picnics, potlucks, or simply when you’re craving something fresh yet comforting.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta to al dente perfection, then allow it to cool before mixing in other ingredients. This ensures a delightful texture and prevents mushiness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out bacon for turkey bacon or add avocado for creaminess. Experimenting with different dressings can also elevate your salad’s flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy it cold without reheating to maintain freshness.

It was a hot summer day when my friend suggested we have a picnic. I whipped up this BLT pasta salad, and everyone devoured it! The laughter and compliments truly made it a memorable occasion.

FAQ

Can I make BLT pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance for improved flavor melding.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pastas like rotini or fusilli hold onto dressing and ingredients well.

How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Substitute bacon with crispy chickpeas or smoked tempeh for a tasty alternative.

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BLT Pasta Salad

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• Author: tastyfoodonly
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

BLT Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish that combines crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals, this salad captures the essence of a classic BLT sandwich in a delightful pasta form. It’s colorful, flavorful, and easy to customize based on your preferences, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and let cool.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, crisp the bacon until golden brown. Remove from heat and crumble.
3. Chop cherry tomatoes and romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise and lemon juice until smooth.
5. In a large bowl, combine pasta, crumbled bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce. Add the dressing and toss gently.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg