BLT Pasta Salad

The sun was shining as I took my first bite of this refreshing BLT Pasta Salad, a perfect blend of flavors that instantly transported me to a summer picnic. This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare and brings together the classic tastes of a BLT in a delightful pasta form, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

This dish is ideal for families, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner. It’s also perfect for preparing ahead of time, just remember to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for best results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that complements the tender rotini pasta.
• Cherry tomatoes contribute a burst of sweetness and color to the dish.
• The creamy dressing ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
• It can be made in advance, allowing flavors to meld for an even tastier meal.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish.

For the Salad

• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Thick-cut bacon offers more flavor; regular can be used.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise.
• Any pasta shape will work in place of rotini.
• Leafy greens like spinach or arugula can replace romaine.
• Your preferred vinegar can substitute apple cider vinegar.

How to Make It

Prepare this BLT Pasta Salad in a few simple steps.

Cook pasta

Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Cook bacon

In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, bacon, cherry tomatoes, and romaine lettuce.

Whisk dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

Toss salad

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.

Chill

Chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, it doesn’t hold up well.
Reheat: not recommended, best served cold.

Tips for Best Results

• Use cold water to rinse the pasta after cooking for better texture.
• Let the salad chill to enhance the flavor of the dressing.
• Fresh ingredients like garden tomatoes will elevate the taste.
• Customize with additional veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
• Pair with crusty bread for a complete picnic spread.
• Perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings.