Description
This BLT Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, combining crispy bacon, sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and tender pasta all tossed in a creamy ranch-style dressing. It’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a satisfying lunch that comes together in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing (or a mix of ranch and mayo for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cool.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, lettuce, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
- Add ranch dressing and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill for at least 20–30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve cold.
Notes
- For best texture, add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
- Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon to lighten it up.
- Add avocado or hard-boiled eggs for extra richness.
- Make it ahead by prepping the pasta and mix-ins separately, then combining just before serving.
- Details
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
