BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together the classic elements of a BLT sandwich in a fresh and vibrant pasta dish. This recipe isn’t just about comfort food; it’s an ideal solution for potlucks, summer picnics, or quick weeknight dinners. The combination of crispy bacon, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy dressing makes it a favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, with its versatility, it’s easily customizable to suit various tastes.

Why you’ll love this dish

This BLT Pasta Salad offers a myriad of benefits that are hard to resist. Firstly, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s budget-friendly too, utilizing everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. The crowd-pleasing combination of flavors and textures means it’s not only kid-approved but also a hit with adults, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual brunches.

"I made this for a summer get-together, and it was the star of the table! Everyone loved how creamy and flavorful it was. I’ll definitely be making it again!" — Emily, satisfied home chef

Preparing BLT Pasta Salad

Making this pasta salad is straightforward and rewarding. Start by cooking your pasta until it’s just al dente, ensuring it keeps its bite. While the pasta cools, you can whip up a simple dressing, which blends smoothly and coats every piece perfectly. Then, it’s a matter of mixing everything together—bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese—to create a colorful and hearty meal, all in under 30 minutes.

What you’ll need

Here’s a list of the main ingredients for your BLT Pasta Salad:

• 12 oz (340 g) rotini or fusilli pasta
• 8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar or cubed mild cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Feel free to substitute the cheese with your favorite variety or skip it altogether for a lighter version.