This BLT Pasta Salad is a tasty blend of pasta, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. It’s creamy, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying!
It’s like a classic BLT but in salad form! I love making this for picnics or just a light lunch at home. Plus, it’s quick to whip up—perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its curves and ability to hold onto that creamy dressing! You can swap it with other pasta shapes like fusilli or shells if you prefer.
Bacon: Crisp bacon adds that classic BLT flavor! If you want a healthier version, turkey bacon works well. For a vegetarian twist, consider crispy tempeh or smoked tofu instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness brightens the salad. If you can’t find them, use Roma tomatoes diced into small pieces. You can also mix in other veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch.
Romaine Lettuce: This sturdy lettuce gives a nice crunch. Feel free to mix in spinach or arugula for a different texture and flavor.
Mayonnaise: Traditional for dressings, but Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative. For a tangy kick, try mixing in sour cream or a vinaigrette.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Pasta?
Cooking pasta is simple but key to getting this salad just right. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked rotini:
- Start with a large pot of salted water. The salt adds flavor to the pasta.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the rotini. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente—firm but not hard. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and run it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps it from getting mushy.
These steps ensure your pasta adds the right texture to your salad!
How to Make BLT Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 8 slices bacon
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BLT Pasta Salad will take about 25 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at roughly 55 minutes from start to finish. Quick and perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it off. Set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While your pasta is cooking, take a skillet and put it over medium heat. Lay the slices of bacon in the skillet and cook until they’re crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. After it’s cooled, crumble or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, blend together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth. This dressing adds creaminess and flavor to your salad!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to mix everything together! Add the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped romaine lettuce into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until each piece is coated in that delicious dressing.
5. Adjust and Chill:
Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you’re using fresh parsley, sprinkle that on top for a nice pop of color and flavor. After mixing, cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors come together beautifully.
6. Serve:
Your BLT Pasta Salad is ready to serve! You can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a lovely lunch at home. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the rotini with gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer a great variety of gluten-free pasta options that will work perfectly in this BLT Pasta Salad.
Can I Substitute Bacon with a Vegetarian Option?
Yes, if you’d like to make this salad vegetarian, try using crispy tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative. You can also use smoked tofu for a similar flavor profile without the meat!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta salad can thicken as it sits, so you might want to add a little extra dressing or a splash of water when you reheat it to get the right consistency again.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding ingredients like avocado, bell peppers, or even corn for extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the dressing quantity if adding more ingredients!
