Why You’ll Love this BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines the classic flavors of a BLT with the heartiness of pasta, you’ll love this BLT Pasta Salad.
It’s a delightful twist that brings together the crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce in a creamy dressing. I enjoy how easy it’s to prepare and perfect for any gathering.
It’s versatile, too—you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this salad stands out.
Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, ensuring you’ve got a tasty dish ready when you need it.
Ingredients of BLT Pasta Salad
When it comes to making a delicious BLT Pasta Salad, the ingredients are where the magic begins. This dish is all about bringing together flavors that just work so well together, and you’ll find that most of them are pretty common staples.
So, if you’ve got a well-stocked kitchen, you might even have everything you need on hand. Let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this tasty treat!
Ingredients for BLT Pasta Salad:
- 7 ounces pasta shells or spiral-shaped pasta, cooked and drained
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon light brown sugar (to taste)
- Tabasco sauce (to taste)
- 4 roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped green onion
- 4 cups thinly sliced lettuce
Now, while gathering your ingredients, don’t forget that you can always make substitutions based on what you have or prefer. For instance, if you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt could be a great swap for a lighter twist.
And if you want a bit more crunch, feel free to toss in some cucumbers or bell peppers. I once made this salad without bacon because I thought I’d try being healthy—spoiler alert: it just wasn’t the same.
How to Make BLT Pasta Salad
Making a delightful BLT Pasta Salad is easier than you might think, and it all starts with that 7 ounces of cooked pasta—whether you opt for shells or spiral-shaped pasta. You’ll want to cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain it and let it cool while you gather the rest of your ingredients. This is a great time to reflect on how pasta can soak up all those fabulous flavors, right?
Now, in a large bowl, take that 1 cup of mayonnaise and mix it with 1/3 cup of chili sauce, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of chicken bouillon powder, and a pinch of light brown sugar (1/2 teaspoon, to be exact, but feel free to adjust to your sweet tooth). Stir it all together until it’s beautifully combined.
And here’s where it gets fun—add in your cooled pasta, along with 4 chopped roma tomatoes and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. You’re creating a vibrant mix of colors and flavors, and it’s almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
Once everything is mixed, cover your masterpiece and chill it in the fridge for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to mingle and get to know each other.
Just before serving, you’ll want to fold in the 8 slices of crumbled bacon—because who can resist bacon? Serve it all on a bed of 4 cups of thinly sliced lettuce for that lovely crunch.
And if you have leftovers (which is a big if, let’s be honest), just pop them back in the fridge, and enjoy the next day. Trust me, this salad is so good that you might just find yourself making it again and again, even if you swore you wouldn’t.
BLT Pasta Salad Substitutions & Variations
While the classic BLT Pasta Salad is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can elevate the dish to suit your taste.
For a lighter option, swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes or use whole wheat pasta for added nutrition.
If you’re not a fan of bacon, crispy turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms can add great flavor.
For a twist, try adding diced avocado or crumbled feta cheese.
Every adjustment can create a new favorite version of this delightful salad!
What to Serve with BLT Pasta Salad
After you’ve crafted your perfect BLT Pasta Salad, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it.
I love pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp for some added protein. A fresh fruit salad can bring a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, try serving it with garlic bread or a light soup. For a crunchy side, consider veggie sticks with ranch dip.
Finally, don’t forget a revitalizing drink like iced tea or lemonade to complete the meal. Your guests will appreciate the delightful balance of flavors!
Additional Tips & Notes
To elevate your BLT Pasta Salad, consider a few additional tips that can enhance both flavor and presentation.
First, try adding diced avocado for creaminess that complements the dressing beautifully. You can also sprinkle crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese on top for a salty kick.
If you want a bit of crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds. For freshness, fresh basil or parsley can make a lovely garnish.
Finally, let the salad chill overnight; it allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Trust me, these little tweaks will take your salad to the next level!