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This BLT pasta salad takes all the familiar flavors of a bacon lettuce and tomato sandwich and transforms them into a refreshing, shareable dish perfect for summer barbecues or easy weeknight dinners. With creamy dressing, crunchy veggies, and plenty of smoky bacon, it is hearty enough as a main course and always a crowd-pleaser.
I first whipped this up when craving something familiar but a bit more fun than a sandwich and now friends request it for every pool party I host.
Ingredients
- Pasta: use short pasta like rotini fusilli or penne for best dressing coverage and texture
- Bacon: go for streaky thick-cut slices for irresistible crunch and flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: fresh and juicy halves add bright sweetness seek ripe firm ones
- Romaine lettuce: adds crispness and freshness buy whole hearts and slice just before mixing
- Red onion: thinly sliced for a subtle bite choose a smaller sweeter onion
- Mayonnaise: gives body and richness to the dressing choose full-fat for creaminess
- Sour cream: lightens and balances the mayo adds a pleasant tang
- Lemon juice: wakes up the flavors freshly squeezed is best
- Dijon mustard: sharpens the dressing opt for a good-quality jar
- Garlic powder: adds warm mellow depth without overpowering choose a finely ground version
- Salt and black pepper: to heighten all the flavors crack pepper fresh for a zesty bite
- Fresh chives or parsley: for a burst of color and herbal notes pick bright vibrant bunches
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the pasta Stir occasionally and cook until it is just al dente about eight to ten minutes Taste a piece to check Remove from heat drain using a colander and rinse under cold water until fully cool Spread out to prevent sticking
- Crisp the Bacon:
- Lay the bacon strips in a cold skillet and set over medium heat Let the fat render slowly Cook until the pieces turn evenly golden and crisp flipping as needed Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and allow to cool Chop into bite-sized bits
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together the mayonnaise sour cream lemon juice Dijon mustard garlic powder and generous pinches of salt and black pepper Whisk until completely smooth Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
- Assemble the Salad:
- Combine cooled pasta bacon cherry tomatoes romaine lettuce and red onion if you are using it in the bowl with the dressing Use a large spoon or spatula to toss it all together making sure every piece is coated
- Garnish and Serve:
- Spoon into a serving bowl and sprinkle fresh chopped chives or parsley on top Serve at once or chill in the refrigerator for up to two hours to let flavors meld
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I love the pop of sweet juicy tomatoes in every forkful and my kids always compete for the crispiest bacon pieces This salad has marked many relaxed summer evenings at our home with laughter echoing around the table
Storage Tips
Store any leftover pasta salad tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to two days If making ahead wait to add lettuce until just before serving to keep it crisp The bacon may soften slightly as it sits but the flavor deepens overnight
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in turkey bacon for a lighter option or use baked tofu for a vegetarian twist Greek yogurt can replace the sour cream in the dressing Romaine can be traded for baby spinach or arugula according to preference
Serving Suggestions
Pair this salad with grilled chicken corn on the cob or garlic bread for a complete meal It also sits beautifully alongside other summer salads or chilled white wine for an easy entertaining spread
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Cultural and Historical Context
BLT sandwiches have deep roots in American lunch culture loved for their simplicity and classic combination of flavors This pasta salad version borrows that nostalgia and gives it a playful modern twist ideal for gatherings or casual family meals
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, rotini, fusilli, or penne all work well. Short, sturdy shapes hold dressing and mix-ins best.
- → What can I use instead of pork bacon?
Turkey bacon is a tasty lighter substitute. Plant-based bacon can also be used for a pork-free version.
- → How do I keep the lettuce crisp?
Add lettuce just before serving and store separately if making ahead to ensure maximum freshness and crunch.
- → Is the salad best served cold or at room temperature?
The salad is delicious slightly chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile for gatherings or quick meals.
- → Can I add cheese or other ingredients?
Shredded cheddar or diced avocado add richness. Try herbs or red onion for extra flavor and texture variety.