Oh boy, are you in for a treat with this Best BLT Pasta Salad! I can’t even begin to tell you how much I love this dish. It’s like the quintessential summer picnic food but with a twist. Imagine the delightful flavors of a classic BLT sandwich combined with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a match made in foodie heaven!
I first discovered this recipe at a summer barbecue hosted by my best friend. I remember the vibrant colors of the veggies, the tangy dressing, and the crunchiness of the bacon peeking through the pasta. It was the highlight of the meal, and I just had to get my hands on that recipe! Since then, I’ve made it dozens of times, and it never fails to impress family and friends alike. There’s just something about it that screams “comfort” while still being refreshingly light and easy to whip up. Trust me, you and your loved ones are going to adore this dish!
What’s in Best BLT Pasta Salad?
Pasta: I use rotini or fusilli because their curly shapes catch all the delicious dressing and ingredients wonderfully. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is great for those looking for healthier options!
Bacon: The star of the show! Crispy bacon adds that savory, smoky flavor we all love in a BLT. I usually opt for thin-cut bacon as it cooks faster and gets extra crispy. Remember—no limp bacon here!
Lettuce: Crisp romaine or iceberg lettuce brings the refreshing crunch. I always go for the freshest leaves—I love chopping them right before serving for that extra crispness!
Tomatoes: Juicy cherry tomatoes are my go-to! They add a pop of sweetness and the perfect bite-sized goodness. If you can get your hands on heirloom tomatoes, even better!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives a wonderful creamy texture and a bit of tang that balances beautifully with the dish. It really makes the pasta salad feel hearty.
Green Onions: Sliced green onions are fantastic for a slight oniony kick without overpowering the salad. They add freshness and color!
Dressing: A delightful blend of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with a hint of vinegar makes the perfect creamy dressing. This combination keeps things light while pairing perfectly with the other ingredients.
Is Best BLT Pasta Salad Good for You?
This pasta salad is packed with flavor but remember, it’s a treat! The pasta provides carbohydrates for energy, while the bacon gives you protein (and yumminess), but it’s best enjoyed in moderation if you’re watching your fat intake. The lettuce and tomatoes are super nutritious; they’re filled with vitamins and minerals that make your body happy.
Using Greek yogurt in the dressing helps lighten it up compared to traditional mayonnaise and adds extra protein. However, if you’re watching your sodium, opt for low-sodium bacon or use less of it!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
– 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, making it perfect for potlucks or family gatherings!
How to Make Best BLT Pasta Salad?
1. Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps your pasta nice and firm!
2. While the pasta is cooking, fry up your bacon in a skillet until crispy. Once done, drain on paper towels to remove excess grease, and then crumble it up.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, chopped lettuce, halved tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
6. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those flavors to mingle and develop.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
Let’s get creative! If you’re looking to jazz things up, consider adding diced avocado for creaminess or some spicy jalapeños for a kick. Swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version. I love to sprinkle some crispy fried onions on top right before serving for that extra crunch!
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or is even a stand-alone dish on a hot day. Serve it in a pretty bowl, and you’ve got an eye-catching centerpiece for your summer table!
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! I know you’re going to love it as much as I do. Enjoy each bite, and please let me know how your version turns out! Happy cooking!
