Description
This Summer BLT Pasta Salad is a refreshing twist on a classic favorite. With a combination of pasta, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Salad:
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ripe avocado, diced (optional)
Dressing:
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, cheddar cheese, and avocado if using.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and mayonnaise until smooth. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, or refrigerate up to 2 hours and add lettuce and avocado just before serving to keep them fresh.
Notes
- For added flavor, try using buttermilk ranch or add fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
- To make ahead, keep dressing separate and mix in right before serving.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be substituted to suit dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
