Blt Pasta Salad Recipe
This BLT pasta salad is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, combining crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes with al dente pasta, all tossed in a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner, this dish is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Your family and friends will love this delicious salad, making it a must-try for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, 22g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 8g of protein. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain and rinse under cold water.
- While pasta is cooking, cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy; then crumble it into pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine thoroughly.
- Add sliced green onions and mix gently.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Garnish with additional bacon or green onions if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use turkey bacon for a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier dressing, or add avocado for creaminess.
Serving and Pairings
This BLT pasta salad pairs well with grilled chicken, garlic bread, or a side of fresh fruit. It’s also a great addition to any summer barbecue or picnic.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. It’s not recommended to freeze, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; aim for al dente.
- Not cooling the pasta before mixing can wilt the lettuce.
- Skipping the chilling time can lead to less flavor.
- Forgetting to season the dressing can result in blandness.
- Using stale bacon can affect the overall taste.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
- Try adding other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers.
- For a kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will be even more flavorful when served.
What if I don’t like mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette dressing for a lighter option.
Can I add other proteins to this salad?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added for a protein boost.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Conclusion
This BLT pasta salad recipe is a delightful, quick, and easy dish that combines the flavors of a classic sandwich with the heartiness of pasta. Perfect for any gathering, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy all appetites. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side or a main dish, and feel free to customize it to your liking!

BLT Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 2 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions sliced
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain and rinse under cold water.
- While pasta is cooking, cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy; then crumble it into pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine thoroughly.
- Add sliced green onions and mix gently.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Garnish with additional bacon or green onions if desired.