Description
This BLT Pasta Salad Recipe combines crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, tender pasta, and a creamy homemade dressing for a fresh and flavorful crowd-pleaser. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, picnics, meal prep, and family gatherings, this easy pasta salad is a delicious twist on the classic BLT sandwich!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta Salad
- 12 ounces rotini pasta – the spiral shape holds the dressing well
- 10 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – adds juicy sweetness
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce – provides fresh crunch
- ½ cup diced red onion – adds a mild bite
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – for extra richness
For the Creamy Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise – creates a rich, creamy base
- ½ cup sour cream – adds tanginess and balances the flavors
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – brightens the dressing
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – adds depth and subtle spice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances savory flavor
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cook the pasta until al dente and rinse under cold water.
- Cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it.
- Whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Combine the pasta, bacon, tomatoes, onion, and cheese in a large bowl.
- Toss the salad with the dressing until evenly coated.
- Fold in the chopped romaine lettuce just before serving.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Garnish with extra bacon and serve chilled.
Notes
- Add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
- Cook the bacon until extra crispy for the best texture.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 servings
- Calories: 420 calories
