BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
This BLT pasta salad is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The pasta provides a hearty base, while the bacon adds a smoky richness. The tomatoes bring a burst of freshness, and the lettuce adds a crisp crunch. All of this is brought together with a creamy dressing that complements the ingredients perfectly. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, this BLT pasta salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Whisk
Ingredients
- 10 slices bacon cooked and diced; grease reserved.
- 12 ounces pasta cooked and cooled.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing homemade ranch is best.
- 1 1/2 cup tomatoes diced.
- 1/2 avocado diced.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded.
- 1/3 cup red onion diced.
- 1 cup romaine lettuce
- fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a big skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy and golden. To drain and cool, move the cooked bacon to a plate covered with paper towels. After the bacon has cooled, break it up into smaller pieces.
- Make the dressing while the bacon is cooking. Mix the lemon juice, ranch dressing, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper together. Discard the dressing.
- For the pasta, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. When boiling, add the pasta and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, or until soft. After draining the pasta in a strainer and giving it a quick rinse in cold water to cool it down, let the pasta drain thoroughly.
- As the pasta cooks and drains, get the veggies ready. Cut the red onion into small pieces, chop the spinach coarsely, and slice the grape tomatoes in half.
- After the pasta has cooked and drained, combine it with the vinaigrette, spinach, tomatoes, and onions in a big bowl. Mix everything until it's all uniformly mixed and covered with dressing.
- After the pasta has sat for ten to fifteen minutes to allow the flavors to meld, stir it again and serve.
Notes
- Use any bite-sized pasta that you desire. Rotini is a very good choice!
If you don't like onions, you are welcome to omit them. - Replace mayonnaise with extra sour cream or Ranch dressing for a mayo-free option. Just remember to prepare a quarter cup of mixture. Use more healthful alternatives, such as avocado mayo.
- Use as much bacon as you like!
- On-the-vine tomatoes were utilized in this salad. Another fantastic option is Roma. Cherry tomatoes are another option.
- While apple cider vinegar is a great option for cooking, white vinegar can also be used.