Looking for a light and healthy dish that packs a punch of flavor? This BLT pasta salad recipe is just what you need! Combining the classic flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomato, this dish brings a refreshing twist to your summer meals or potlucks. Plus, it’s served cold, making it perfect for hot days.
With a creamy and tangy BLT pasta salad dressing, every bite is a delightful treat. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bacon or fresh garden tomatoes. This BLT pasta salad is not only delicious but also a healthy choice for any occasion.
Captivating Flavors of a BLT Pasta Salad
This BLT pasta salad is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that can brighten any meal. Featuring colorful cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh romaine lettuce, it’s a dish that balances freshness and heartiness in every bite.
The creamy dressing ties all the ingredients together, making it a perfect choice for warm days. Serve it cold, and you have a refreshing option that’s perfect for summer gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients That Shine
At the heart of this dish are fresh ingredients that create a vibrant and appealing salad. The combination of al dente pasta and crispy bacon offers a satisfying crunch, while juicy cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness.
Fresh romaine lettuce provides a crisp contrast, ensuring that every mouthful is exciting. The creamy BLT pasta salad dressing enhances the overall flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s both hearty and healthy.
Simple Preparation Steps

Preparing this salad is straightforward and quick, making it an easy go-to recipe. Begin by cooking the pasta until it’s perfectly al dente. Once cooled, mix in crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
The dressing is a simple blend of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard, bringing a zesty punch that complements the other ingredients. After tossing everything together, let the salad chill, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This BLT pasta salad is versatile enough for various occasions. Whether it’s a picnic, a barbecue, or a family gathering, it fits seamlessly into any menu. The vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a standout dish that invites everyone to dig in.
Moreover, its cold serving temperature makes it particularly appealing in warm weather, offering a refreshing bite that balances the richness of the bacon and creamy dressing.
Customization and Variations
Feel free to play around with the ingredients in this BLT pasta salad recipe. Adding your favorite vegetables or herbs can elevate the flavor profile. Consider incorporating items like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs to enhance the freshness.
If you’re aiming for a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This not only lightens the dish but also adds a nice tang that complements the other flavors.
Storing and Serving Tips
This salad can be prepared ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or potlucks. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will deepen as it sits, ensuring every bite is delicious.
For an added touch, top the salad with chopped green onions before serving. This small addition brings a wonderful crunch and a burst of color, making your BLT pasta salad not only tasty but visually appealing.
BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
4
servings15
minutes25
minutes320
kcal40
minutesRecipe Ingredients
8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
