BLT Pasta Salad

The aroma of crispy bacon mingling with fresh tomatoes and crisp romaine fills the kitchen, signaling the arrival of a refreshing meal. This BLT Pasta Salad combines hearty rotini with the classic flavors of a bacon-lettuce-tomato sandwich for a delightful twist. It takes just 30 minutes to prepare, and the creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully.

This recipe is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days, making mealtime a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender pasta.
• Fresh cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness in every bite.
• The creamy dressing balances all the ingredients perfectly.
• This salad can be served cold or at room temperature, ideal for any occasion.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta salad.

For the Salad

• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Use low-fat mayo for a lighter version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use turkey bacon for a healthier option.
• Swap rotini for fusilli or penne.
• Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy taste.
• Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes.

How to Make It

Create this delicious salad with just these simple steps.

Cook the pasta

Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

Cook the bacon

In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from skillet, crumble, and set aside.

Combine salad ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine.

Whisk the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

Pour and toss

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.

Serve or chill

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: no, pasta doesn’t freeze well.
Reheat: not recommended, serve cold or at room temp.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and crunch.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
• Adjust the dressing ingredients according to your taste preference.
• Add additional veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra freshness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• Serve alongside crispy bread for a complete lunch.
• Perfect for summer picnics or gatherings.