This BLT Pasta Salad is super tasty and always a hit at parties, like barbecues or potlucks. It’s got all the good stuff from a BLT sandwich but mixed up in a creamy ranch dressing.
Instead of mayo, you can use ranch dressing, and it turns out fantastic! You can even add grilled chicken if you want to make it a main dish. Once you give this a try, you’ll see why everyone loves it. It’s perfect for those summer gatherings!
BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Salad tongs or spoon for mixing
- Salad plates or bowls for serving
Ingredients
- 6 oz Uncooked rotini pasta about 2 cups
- 4 cups Chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cups Cherry tomatoes halved
- 8 oz Bacon cooked and chopped
- 1/3 cup Finely chopped red onion
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then rinse under cold water and let it cool.
- Mix the dressing ingredients until creamy.
- In a large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, lettuce, tomatoes, bacon, and red onion.
- Just before serving, add the dressing and gently mix everything.
Notes
- Avocado cubes are a delicious addition.
- Rinse the pasta after cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
- You can prepare this salad ahead of time, but wait to add the bacon and lettuce until serving.
- Any pasta shape will do, but those with texture work best.
- Keep the salad refrigerated if not serving immediately.
- Fry your bacon for optimal flavour, but store-bought bacon pieces will do in a pinch.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 515 kcal |
| Fat | 34g |
| Sodium | 446mg |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fibre | 4g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Iron | 3mg |
| Potassium | 353mg |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg |
Can I Make Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This pasta salad recipe is super simple and perfect for any gathering. You can enjoy it right after mixing, or prep it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If you’re making it ahead, keep the bacon and lettuce separate until serving time to keep them crispy. Also, save a bit of dressing to add just before serving, or you can moisten the salad with a bit of extra milk or buttermilk.
How Long Can BLT Pasta Salad Sit Out?
This salad is perfect for outdoor parties, but since it has mayo-based dressing, it’s best not to leave it out for more than an hour or two. But don’t worry, it’s easy to keep it cool in a cooler if you’re hanging out longer!
What Kind Of Bacon Should I Use for BLT Pasta Salad?
I recommend using centre-cut bacon because it has more meat and less fat per slice. But feel free to get creative! Peppered bacon or applewood-smoked bacon are tasty options too. If you’re watching your fat intake, turkey bacon works too, but keep in mind it might need a little extra cooking time and a touch of oil in the pan.