BLT Pasta Saladconv – Imagine a dish that combines the crispy, smoky goodness of bacon with the freshness of tomatoes and the comforting embrace of pasta. This is BLT Pasta Salad, a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich in a refreshing salad form. Picture yourself at a summer picnic, each bite bursting with flavor and complemented by the crunch of lettuce and the warmth of freshly cooked pasta.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What pasta works best for BLT Pasta Salad?
- Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
- How long does this salad last in the fridge?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you back to that unforgettable family reunion where my cousin accidentally spilled half the dressing on my favorite shirt. While I was busy dabbing at my clothing like a mad scientist, everyone else was devouring this incredible BLT Pasta Salad. The laughter and joy around that picnic table made me realize how food can bring us together—messy shirts and all.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make BLT Pasta Salad is packed with flavor, offering a perfect balance of creamy dressing and crispy bacon
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing for any gathering
- You can customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it versatile for any occasion
- Perfectly suited for picnics or potlucks, this salad will impress your friends and family alike
When I first served this dish, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Choose your favorite type; rotini or fusilli hold onto dressing beautifully for maximum flavor.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon pieces add that essential smoky flavor; don’t skimp on this ingredient.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Go for vibrant red ones; they provide sweetness and burst in your mouth with every bite.
- Romaine Lettuce: Fresh romaine adds a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy dressing.
- Mayonnaise: A creamy base for the dressing; adjust to taste for richness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash adds zing to balance the creaminess of mayonnaise perfectly.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those glorious flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add about 12 ounces of pasta and cook until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain under cold water to stop cooking. For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.
Crisp the Bacon: While pasta cooks, fry up 6-8 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy and golden brown. Don’t forget to save some grease for extra flavor!
Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect tanginess.
Add Veggies and Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce (about 3 cups) and halved cherry tomatoes (1-2 cups). Stir in cooled pasta and crumbled bacon evenly.
Toss Everything Together: Pour the dressing over your pasta salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well coated in creamy goodness.
Chill and Serve: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
This delightful BLT Pasta Salad is more than just food; it’s an experience wrapped in nostalgia, laughter, and delicious flavors that make every gathering special! For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes.
You Must Know
- This BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on a classic
- It combines the fresh, crispy flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes with pasta for a filling dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings
- The vibrant colors and textures make it a feast for both eyes and taste buds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta until al dente, then drain and cool. While it cools, fry the bacon until crispy. This sequence ensures everything melds perfectly together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients like cherry tomatoes for sun-dried ones or add some avocado for creaminess. These tweaks keep the salad fresh and exciting.
Storing & Reheating
Store your BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Don’t reheat; enjoy it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality bacon for maximum flavor; it makes all the difference in this dish
- Letting the pasta cool completely prevents sogginess, which can ruin your salad experience
- A splash of lemon juice brightens flavors and enhances freshness in every bite
Cooking this BLT Pasta Salad reminds me of summer picnics with family, where laughter and delicious food filled the air, creating unforgettable memories.
FAQ
What pasta works best for BLT Pasta Salad?
Any short pasta like rotini or fusilli holds dressing beautifully without becoming mushy.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Cucumbers or bell peppers add crunch and extra freshness to your salad.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for about three days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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BLT Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
BLT Pasta Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic sandwich, combining crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy romaine with pasta for a delightful summer dish. Perfect for picnics or potlucks, each bite is bursting with flavor and nostalgia.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 6–8 slices bacon
- 1–2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and cool under cold water.
- Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Reserve some grease for added flavor.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar; season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled bacon.
- Toss everything with the dressing until well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to let flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling/Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg