BLT Pasta Salad
There’s something magical about combining the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with the heartiness of pasta salad. This BLT Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and al dente pasta, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing a picnic, or simply craving a satisfying lunch, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and ease. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First, this BLT Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. It works as a side dish for grilled meats, a standalone lunch, or even a potluck star. The combination of textures—crunchy bacon, tender pasta, and crisp lettuce—makes every bite exciting.
Second, it’s quick to prepare. With minimal cooking required (just the pasta and bacon), you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Third, the flavors are nostalgic yet fresh. The BLT combination is a timeless favorite, but the addition of pasta and a creamy dressing elevates it into something new and exciting.
Finally, this recipe is highly customizable. Whether you want to add avocado, swap in a different dressing, or make it vegetarian, the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this BLT Pasta Salad shine.
Pasta: Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle work best because they hold the dressing well. Cook it al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch. For the best flavor, cook it until crispy and drain it well to prevent greasiness.
Lettuce: Romaine or iceberg lettuce provides a refreshing crunch. Tear it into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal because they’re sweet and hold their shape. Halve them for even distribution.
Dressing: A creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and a splash of lemon juice ties everything together. A hint of garlic powder and black pepper adds depth.
How to Make BLT Pasta Salad
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect BLT Pasta Salad.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then chop into small pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables Wash and dry the lettuce, then tear it into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Chill and Serve For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
To take your BLT Pasta Salad to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind.
Don’t overcook the pasta. Mushy pasta ruins the texture. Always cook it al dente and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Drain the bacon well. Excess grease can make the salad soggy. Blot the bacon with paper towels after cooking.
Add the lettuce last. If you’re making the salad ahead of time, wait to add the lettuce until just before serving to keep it crisp.
Season the dressing well. Taste and adjust the dressing before adding it to the salad. A little extra lemon juice or salt can make a big difference.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is flexible, so feel free to customize it to your taste or dietary needs.
Protein Swaps: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add smoked almonds or tempeh bacon for a similar crunch and flavor.
Cheese Lovers: Add crumbled feta, shredded cheddar, or grated Parmesan for extra richness.
Extra Veggies: Diced cucumbers, red onions, or avocado can add more freshness and texture.
Dressing Alternatives: Swap the creamy dressing for a lighter vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
What to Serve With It
This BLT Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or steak for a complete meal.
Sandwiches: Pair with a classic club sandwich or a grilled cheese for a comforting lunch.
Summer Sides: Complement with corn on the cob, coleslaw, or fresh fruit for a picnic spread.
Drinks: Iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine make refreshing beverage choices.
How to Store and Reheat
Proper storage ensures your BLT Pasta Salad stays fresh and delicious.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note that the lettuce may wilt over time, so it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the lettuce and creamy dressing, which can become watery when thawed.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for the best texture, wait to add the lettuce until just before serving. The pasta, bacon, and dressing can be mixed and stored in the fridge for up to a day in advance.
What’s the best pasta shape for this salad? Short, sturdy shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle work best because they hold the dressing well and are easy to eat.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? Absolutely. Turkey bacon is a leaner option, though it may not be as crispy. Bake it in the oven for the best texture.
How can I make this recipe healthier? Use whole wheat pasta, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers.
Is there a dairy-free option for the dressing? Yes, substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative or omit it entirely.
Final Thoughts
This BLT Pasta Salad is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of classic flavors with a fun twist. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout, packing it for lunch, or enjoying it as a quick dinner, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. The best part? It’s endlessly adaptable, so you can make it your own. Give it a try, and I’d love to hear how you customize it. Happy cooking!
Print
BLT Pasta Salad
Description
A delicious twist on the classic BLT sandwich, this pasta salad combines crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes with tender pasta in a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- For the salad:
- 8 oz pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- For the dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- 1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- 2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- 3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- 5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- 6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. Add avocado for extra creaminess. Best served chilled.
