BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of two beloved classics: a hearty pasta salad and the iconic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich. Imagine enjoying the crisp freshness of romaine lettuce, coupled with the rich, savory taste of crispy bacon, all tossed together in a creamy dressing. This dish has become my go-to for summer picnics, backyard barbecues, or even just a comforting weekday meal. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
You might be asking yourself, why should I whip up this BLT Pasta Salad? Well, for starters, it’s a breeze to make and can be prepared quickly, making it an excellent option for those busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. It’s a budget-friendly meal that stretches your dollars while delivering bold flavors. Plus, who can resist the combination of crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and juicy cherry tomatoes? It’s perfect for any occasion—from a family brunch to a summer potluck or even as a light dinner on a warm evening.
"This BLT Pasta Salad was a huge hit at our barbecue! It was refreshing and packed with flavor. We couldn’t get enough of it!" – Happy Home Chef
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making BLT Pasta Salad is easy and enjoyable. The key is to have everything prepped and ready to go. You’ll start by cooking the rotini pasta until it’s al dente and ready for rinsing. Meanwhile, you’ll prepare your dressing and chop up all the fresh ingredients. Once everything is ready, you’ll mix it all in one large bowl, making sure every bite is packed with flavors.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items for a delicious BLT Pasta Salad:
- 1 (16-ounce) box rotini pasta, cooked, drained, and rinsed with cold water
- 13 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 large red onion, finely diced
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, cut or torn into bite-size pieces
- 1 avocado, cut into small pieces
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 (1-ounce) packet Hidden Valley Dressing Mix (dry)
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Note: You could substitute bacon with turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian option.
