Blt pasta salad has become my go-to for summer gatherings, and I’m so excited to share this version with you! I remember the first time I tasted a truly amazing pasta salad with bacon lettuce tomato – it was at a friend’s barbecue, and the creamy, tangy dressing combined with the salty bacon and fresh veggies was pure magic. This easy BLT pasta salad recipe captures that same irresistible flavor profile, with perfectly cooked pasta, crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, and that essential smoky bacon. It’s the ultimate side dish that everyone always asks for. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Blt Pasta Salad
This isn’t just any pasta salad; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Here’s why this quick BLT pasta salad will be your new favorite:
- Incredibly Easy to Make: This simple BLT pasta salad comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The classic combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato is a guaranteed hit for any gathering.
- Perfectly Creamy Texture: Our creamy dressing coats every piece of pasta, making each bite a delight.
- Versatile Side Dish: It’s the best BLT pasta salad to serve at picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch.
- Fresh and Vibrant: Crisp romaine and juicy tomatoes add a refreshing crunch that balances the rich bacon.
- Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to your liking with the suggested BLT pasta salad variations.
- Satisfyingly Simple: You get all the beloved flavors of a BLT sandwich in a convenient pasta salad format.
Ingredients for Blt Pasta Salad
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating the best BLT pasta salad. This easy BLT pasta salad recipe balances creamy, savory, and fresh flavors perfectly.
- For the Dressing:
- 1 cup milk – provides a smooth base for the dressing.
- 1 cup sour cream – adds a rich, tangy creaminess to our BLT pasta salad dressing.
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix – this is the secret to that classic, irresistible flavor in our creamy BLT pasta salad.
- For the Salad:
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon – cooked until crispy and chopped, this is essential for that smoky, savory punch.
- 8 oz farfalle pasta – also known as bowtie pasta, its shape holds the creamy dressing wonderfully.
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped – for that essential fresh crunch, just like in a traditional BLT.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – adds a burst of juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup red onions, finely diced – provides a sharp, fresh bite that cuts through the richness.
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce – adds a subtle smoky-sweet depth to the overall flavor profile.
- For the Finish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – a little drizzle adds a nice sheen and extra richness.
How to Make Blt Pasta Salad
Creating this delicious pasta salad with bacon lettuce tomato is super straightforward. Follow these steps for the best BLT pasta salad!
- Step 1: Cook the Farfalle pasta in boiling salted water according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta well and let it cool slightly. This is your base for the easy BLT pasta salad.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, prepare the creamy dressing. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup milk, 1 cup sour cream, and 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix until everything is smooth and well combined. The aroma of the Ranch mix is already a good sign!
- Step 3: Cook the 4 slices thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until perfectly crispy. The sizzle and smell are amazing! Drain the bacon on paper towels and then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, the real magic begins. Combine the slightly cooled pasta, the crispy chopped bacon, 2 cups romaine lettuce (chopped), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), and 1/4 cup red onions (finely diced). Add the 1/4 cup BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Step 5: Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together with tongs until all the ingredients are evenly coated in that delicious, tangy dressing. Make sure every piece of pasta gets some love!
- Step 6: Finally, drizzle 2 tablespoons olive oil over the salad and give it one last gentle mix. This adds a lovely sheen and a touch of richness to your BLT pasta salad. For the ultimate flavor, I highly recommend chilling this simple BLT pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Blt Pasta Salad
Want to elevate your BLT pasta salad from good to absolutely unforgettable? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up that make all the difference for this classic BLT pasta salad recipe.
- Cook bacon until extra crispy: Soggy bacon is a no-go for this salad. Make sure it’s perfectly crisp so it adds a satisfying crunch.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is key! Mushy pasta will break apart and make your salad less appealing.
- Chill before serving: This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your creamy BLT pasta salad even more delicious. I usually aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Fresh lettuce is a must: Use crisp romaine for the best texture. Avoid iceberg as it can get watery.
What’s the secret to perfect Blt Pasta Salad?
The secret to a perfect BLT pasta salad lies in balancing textures and flavors. Using a creamy, tangy ranch dressing and ensuring your bacon is super crispy are non-negotiable for achieving that classic taste. For more on flavor balancing, check out these tips for flavor combinations.
Can I make Blt Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This simple BLT pasta salad is fantastic for meal prep. You can combine everything except the lettuce a day in advance. Add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp. This is similar to how you might prepare components for breakfast bowls.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Blt Pasta Salad?
The biggest pitfall is overcooking the pasta, leading to a mushy salad. Also, don’t skip chilling the salad; it truly enhances all the flavors of this easy BLT pasta salad. Proper cooking techniques are vital for many dishes, like these cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Best Ways to Serve Blt Pasta Salad
This versatile BLT pasta salad recipe is perfect for so many occasions! It shines as a star side dish at any summer BBQ. Imagine serving this creamy BLT pasta salad alongside grilled chicken or burgers – the cool, tangy salad is the perfect complement to smoky grilled meats. It’s also a fantastic potluck contribution; just pack it in a nice serving bowl and watch it disappear! For a lighter meal, consider making it a main course by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a delicious chicken BLT pasta salad variation. It’s truly the best BLT pasta salad for any casual get-together.
Nutrition Facts for Blt Pasta Salad
This easy BLT pasta salad recipe offers a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious pasta salad with bacon lettuce tomato:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your BLT pasta salad. Understanding nutrition is key, much like when preparing homemade ice cream.
How to Store and Reheat Blt Pasta Salad
Properly storing your delicious BLT pasta salad ensures it stays fresh and tasty for your next meal. Once you’ve finished enjoying this easy BLT pasta salad, let it cool down to room temperature for about 30 minutes before storing. This is crucial to prevent condensation and maintain the best texture. Transfer the salad to an airtight container. This simple BLT pasta salad can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While it’s not ideal for long-term freezing due to the lettuce and creamy dressing, you technically could freeze it for up to 3 months if absolutely necessary, though the texture might be compromised upon thawing. Reheating isn’t usually necessary for this chilled pasta salad with bacon lettuce tomato, but if you prefer it slightly warmer, you can gently warm individual portions in the microwave for short intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blt Pasta Salad
Can I make this BLT pasta salad recipe without mayo?
Yes, you absolutely can! This particular BLT pasta salad recipe uses a creamy ranch dressing made with milk and sour cream, so it’s already mayo-free. If you wanted to experiment further with a BLT pasta salad without mayo, you could try a vinaigrette-based dressing, but the creamy version is really what gives it that classic, comforting flavor.
What kind of pasta is best for a BLT pasta salad?
For this creamy BLT pasta salad, farfalle (bowtie pasta) is my top choice because its nooks and crannies are perfect for catching all that delicious dressing. However, other short pastas like rotini, penne, or fusilli also work wonderfully for a bacon lettuce tomato pasta salad. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente!
Can I add chicken to this BLT pasta salad?
Definitely! Making a chicken BLT pasta salad is a fantastic idea and a great way to turn this side dish into a complete meal. Simply add about 1 to 1.5 cups of cooked, diced grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken to the salad along with the other ingredients in Step 4. It adds extra protein and makes this simple BLT pasta salad even heartier.
How long does this pasta salad with bacon lettuce tomato last?
This easy BLT pasta salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Because it contains fresh lettuce, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal crispness. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making it a great make-ahead option!
Variations of Blt Pasta Salad You Can Try
This classic BLT pasta salad recipe is fantastic as is, but I love getting creative with it! Here are a few BLT pasta salad variations to try that add exciting new flavors and textures.
- Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or some diced jalapeños to the salad. This adds a wonderful spicy twist to the bacon lettuce tomato pasta salad.
- Avocado Addition: Creamy avocado chunks are a brilliant addition! They complement the bacon and add another layer of richness. This makes for a delightful BLT pasta salad with avocado.
- Whole Wheat Twist: Swap the farfalle for whole wheat rotini or penne for a heartier, fiber-rich version. This is a great way to make a healthier pasta salad with bacon lettuce tomato. Consider exploring other dessert options for a balanced meal.
- Smoked Paprika Boost: Stir a teaspoon of smoked paprika into the dressing for an extra smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the bacon in this simple BLT pasta salad.
Amazing Blt Pasta Salad: 1 Perfect Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a creamy BLT pasta salad featuring crispy bacon, fresh romaine lettuce, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a tangy ranch dressing. This easy and versatile recipe is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- For the Dressing:
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- For the Salad:
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 8 oz farfalle pasta
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onions, finely diced
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- For the Finish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Farfalle pasta in boiling salted water according to package directions (8-10 minutes). Drain and cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, sour cream, and Ranch seasoning mix until smooth.
- Cook thick-cut bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crispy bacon, chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onions, and BBQ sauce.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
- Drizzle with olive oil and mix one last time.
Notes
- For best flavor, chill the BLT pasta salad before serving.
- Use fresh ingredients for optimal taste.
- Adjust Ranch seasoning to your preference.
- Consider adding avocado or bell peppers for variation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Pasta Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg