If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dish that combines the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with the comforting texture of pasta, then this BLT pasta salad recipe easy is just what you need! It’s perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight dinner. Just imagine digging into a bowl of rotini pasta mixed with crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh romaine lettuce, all brought together with a creamy dressing. It’s a salad that’s bursting with flavor and is incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one again and again!
Ingredients List
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for a burst of sweetness
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, for that creamy goodness
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, adding a tangy kick
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, to elevate the flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste, because seasoning is key!
How to Prepare the BLT Pasta Salad Recipe Easy
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that rotini pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—trust me, the salt makes a difference. Once it’s bubbling away, add in the 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. You want it to have a little bite, so don’t overdo it! When it’s ready, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down, preventing it from getting sticky. Set it aside to drain completely.
Preparing the Salad Mixture
Now, grab a large mixing bowl because it’s time to combine our delicious ingredients! Start with the cooled rotini pasta, which should be nice and fluffy. Next, add in the crumbled crispy bacon—oh, the aroma is heavenly! Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes for that juicy sweetness, followed by the chopped romaine lettuce. I find it best to add the lettuce last to keep it crisp and fresh. Give everything a gentle mix to combine, but be careful not to mush up those tomatoes!
Making the Dressing
In a separate bowl, let’s whip up the dressing. Combine the 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Use a whisk to blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. You can adjust the seasoning with a little salt and pepper at this stage, too. If you want to kick it up a notch, feel free to taste and add more vinegar for extra tang or even a touch of honey for sweetness!
Combining Everything
Now comes the best part! Drizzle the dressing over your pasta mixture and toss everything together. Make sure every little piece is coated—this is key for flavor! Once it’s all mixed beautifully, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together. Plus, it makes for a refreshing dish right out of the fridge. Seriously, you’ll love how it tastes after hanging out in there for a bit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Combines the classic, mouthwatering flavors of a BLT sandwich in a refreshing pasta salad.
- Customizable to your liking—switch up ingredients or add your favorite extras!
- Great for meal prep—make it ahead for lunches or potlucks, and it keeps well in the fridge.
- Offers a delightful mix of textures—from crunchy bacon to juicy tomatoes and crisp lettuce.
- Perfectly balanced with a creamy dressing that ties all the flavors together.
- It’s gluten-free, making it a great option for friends with dietary restrictions!
Tips for Success
Ready to take your BLT pasta salad to the next level? Here are some of my favorite pro tips to enhance your experience and make this dish even more delightful:
- Cooked Bacon Magic: For an extra crunch, consider using a cast-iron skillet to cook your bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. The rendered bacon fat can be drizzled over the salad for added flavor!
- Fresh Herbs: Don’t skip on fresh herbs! Chopped basil or parsley can elevate the flavor profile and add a pop of color. Just sprinkle them in right before serving for that fresh touch.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Feel free to sneak in some extra veggies! Diced cucumbers or bell peppers add a nice crunch and extra nutrients, making your salad even more vibrant.
- Cheese Lovers: If you’re a cheese fanatic like me, toss in some crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for a creamy, tangy twist. It pairs beautifully with the bacon and dressing!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the salad a day in advance, just keep the romaine lettuce separate until you’re ready to serve. Add it in just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh!
- Flavor Boost: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika in the dressing can add a depth of flavor that will wow your taste buds!
Variations of the BLT Pasta Salad Recipe Easy
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this BLT pasta salad! Here are some delightful variations that can add a new twist to this classic dish:
- Different Greens: While romaine is a classic choice, you can mix it up by using baby spinach, arugula, or even kale for a different flavor and texture. Each green brings its own unique taste!
- Cheesy Goodness: Add some crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, or sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy, savory kick. Cheese can take this salad to a whole new level of deliciousness!
- Avocado Bliss: Dicing up a ripe avocado and mixing it in will not only add a creamy texture but also a healthy dose of good fats. Plus, it pairs beautifully with the bacon!
- Herbed Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or dill to create a fresh, vibrant flavor profile. Just sprinkle them in before serving for that burst of freshness!
- Spicy Twist: If you’re a fan of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing. It’ll give your salad a nice spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy elements.
- Grilled Veggies: Toss in some grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a smoky flavor. Grilling the veggies adds depth and can enhance the overall taste of the salad.
- Protein Boost: For those looking to amp up the protein, consider adding diced grilled chicken or chickpeas. This makes the salad even more filling and satisfying!
- Seasonal Fruits: Try adding diced apples, pears, or even berries for a sweet contrast to the savory elements. The sweetness from the fruit can create a lovely balance in flavors!
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these variations according to your taste buds and what you have on hand. The beauty of this salad is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! This BLT pasta salad stores beautifully. To keep it fresh, transfer any uneaten salad into an airtight container. It’ll happily chill in your fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle a bit.
Now, if you find yourself wanting to reheat it, I recommend you don’t! This salad is best enjoyed cold, and reheating might make the ingredients a little soggy. Instead, just take it out of the fridge, give it a quick toss, and enjoy that refreshing, cool taste. If you need it slightly warmer, consider letting it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Trust me, it’s worth it to maintain all those delicious textures and flavors!
Nutritional Information
This BLT pasta salad is not only delicious but also offers a satisfying nutritional profile. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 12g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s always a good idea to adjust based on your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this creamy, flavorful salad as a part of a balanced meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this BLT pasta salad recipe easy ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making a day in advance. Just remember to keep the romaine lettuce separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain its crispness. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits in the fridge!
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. Both will give you that creamy texture while adding a unique flavor twist!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! While rotini is my go-to for this BLT pasta salad recipe easy, you can swap it for any pasta shape you prefer—penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
This salad will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing since it may settle a bit.
Can I add extra protein to the salad?
Definitely! Diced grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can add a nice protein boost. It’ll make your salad even more filling and satisfying, perfect for a complete meal!
BLT Pasta Salad Recipe Easy: 7 Simple Tips for Success
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious BLT pasta salad that combines the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, use garlic mayonnaise.
- Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: blt pasta salad recipe easy
