BLT Pasta Salad
A refreshing and creamy salad combining the classic flavors of a BLT with pasta, bacon, tomatoes, and crisp lettuce, perfect for warm days and potlucks.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini, bowties, or penne pasta Use pasta with grooves for better dressing adherence.
- 6 slices bacon Cooked until crisp and chopped.
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes Halved.
- 4 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce Chopped, add right before serving.
- 1/4 cup red onion Optional for extra bite.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese Optional, cubed or shredded.
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 spoon sour cream or plain Greek yogurt Optional for added creaminess.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar For tanginess.
- 1 tsp sugar Optional to balance flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp Dijon mustard Optional for extra tanginess.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta in boiling water until al dente, drain, and rinse with cool water.
- Cook the bacon until crisp, place on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the dressing by mixing mayo, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lemon juice or vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, tomatoes, red onion (if using), and most of the bacon.
- Add the dressing and toss until everything is well coated.
Finishing Touches
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Right before serving, fold in the chopped lettuce and the remaining bacon. If needed, add reserved dressing.
Notes
Rinse pasta to cool and prevent clumping. Store lettuce separately if meal prepping. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.