BLT Pasta Salad
This BLT Pasta Salad is the ultimate dish for any occasion! Combining crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a creamy Ranch dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, this pasta salad fits the bill perfectly. Its unique blend of flavors and textures will make it a standout on any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This BLT Pasta Salad can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it a great option for busy days.
- Flavorful: The combination of crispy bacon and creamy Ranch dressing creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize with extras like avocado or cheese to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or barbecues, this dish serves up to 10 people.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time and chill it for up to 3 hours before serving.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you whip up this tasty salad without any hiccups.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large measurement cup
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Serving bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large measurement cup: Essential for mixing your creamy Ranch dressing evenly.
- Skillet: Perfect for frying bacon until it’s crispy without burning.
- Serving bowl: A clean bowl is key for tossing your ingredients together and presenting your salad beautifully.
Ingredients
This BLT Pasta Salad has the BEST combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes tossed in a creamy Ranch dressing with pasta and optional additions like avocado and cheese!
Dairy
- 1 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons Ranch seasoning mix
Protein
- 12 strips thick-cut bacon (high quality)
Pasta
- 1 lb. Farfalle pasta
Vegetables
- 4 cups romaine lettuce (washed/chopped/dried)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (quartered)
- 1/3 cup red onions (finely diced)
Condiments
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
How to Make BLT Pasta Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Ranch Dressing
In a large measurement cup, combine the milk, sour cream, and Ranch seasoning mix. Whisk until well blended. Refrigerate until you’re ready to use it; it will thicken as it stands.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the Farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and spread it out on a tray or parchment paper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and let cool.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
While waiting for the pasta to cool, cut the bacon strips in half. In a 12-inch skillet over low heat, fry them until crispy on both sides. Once done, set aside to cool before roughly chopping.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with Dressing
Transfer the cooled pasta to a large bowl. Add ½ cup of your prepared ranch mixture and toss well to coat all the pasta evenly.
Step 5: Add Veggies and Bacon
To the coated pasta, add the chopped romaine lettuce, quartered cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onions, ¾ of the chopped bacon, BBQ sauce, and another ½ cup of ranch mixture. Toss everything together until well mixed. You will have about 1 cup of ranch mixture left for serving.
Step 6: Serve or Chill
Transfer your salad to a clean serving bowl and top with any remaining bacon bits. You can serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 3 hours before serving. Enjoy your delicious BLT Pasta Salad!
How to Serve BLT Pasta Salad
BLT Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether at a picnic, potluck, or family dinner, this salad will surely impress your guests.
As an Appetizer
- Serve small portions of BLT Pasta Salad in individual cups for a fun appetizer.
- Pair with toothpicks for easy eating and less mess.
As a Side Dish
- Offer the salad alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak to complement the flavors.
- It also pairs well with barbecue dishes, enhancing summer cookouts.
Chilled Option
- Prepare the salad ahead of time and refrigerate it for a refreshing chilled dish.
- This makes it ideal for hot summer days or outdoor gatherings.
With Extra Toppings
- Add sliced avocado or shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Consider sprinkling some chopped herbs like parsley for added freshness.
As a Main Course
- Increase the portion size and serve it as a light meal on its own.
- You can add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier option.
How to Perfect BLT Pasta Salad
To ensure your BLT Pasta Salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes and high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente to maintain its texture in the salad.
- Customize Your Dressing: Adjust the amount of Ranch dressing based on your taste preference; feel free to add more if desired.
- Add Crunch: Include additional crunchy vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra texture.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps meld the flavors together nicely before serving.
- Keep Leftovers Fresh: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Best Side Dishes for BLT Pasta Salad
Pairing side dishes with BLT Pasta Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn cooked on the grill adds a smoky flavor that complements the salad.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light bite.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as a delightful accompaniment to soak up any leftover dressing.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings sweetness and balance to your meal, perfect for summer.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess alongside your pasta salad.
- Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs provide protein and are always a crowd favorite at gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making BLT Pasta Salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture. Here are a few tips to ensure you get it right.
- Using low-quality bacon – High-quality bacon will give your salad the best flavor. Opt for thick-cut bacon for a perfect crispy bite.
- Not cooling the pasta properly – Allowing the pasta to cool completely prevents it from wilting the fresh ingredients. Spread it out on a tray for faster cooling.
- Overdressing the salad – Adding too much ranch dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with half and add more if needed.
- Skipping fresh ingredients – Fresh lettuce and tomatoes are essential for flavor and crunch. Don’t use wilted or old produce.
- Ignoring seasoning balance – Be mindful of the saltiness in bacon and ranch dressing. Taste before adding more salt or seasoning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- BLT Pasta Salad can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing BLT Pasta Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in lettuce and tomatoes.
- If you must freeze, store without dressing and consume within one month.
Reheating BLT Pasta Salad
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish, heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Heat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making BLT Pasta Salad.
Can I make BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead. Just keep it chilled until serving.
What can I add to my BLT Pasta Salad?
Customization is key! Consider adding avocado, cheese, or even grilled chicken for extra flavor.
How long does BLT Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Is BLT Pasta Salad healthy?
With fresh ingredients and lean protein from bacon, it’s a deliciously balanced meal option!
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Farfalle is just one suggestion.
Final Thoughts
This BLT Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish at barbecues. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it uniquely yours. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!
BLT Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
This BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, perfect for any gathering or casual meal. Featuring crispy bacon, fresh romaine lettuce, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a creamy Ranch dressing, this salad offers a burst of flavors and textures in every bite. It’s quick to prepare (ready in just 35 minutes) and can serve up to 10 people—ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. Customize it with additional ingredients like avocado or cheese to suit your palate! With its vibrant colors and satisfying crunch, this pasta salad is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Farfalle pasta
- 12 strips thick-cut bacon
- 4 cups romaine lettuce
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons Ranch seasoning mix
Instructions
- Prepare the Ranch dressing by whisking together milk, sour cream, and Ranch seasoning in a large measurement cup. Refrigerate until needed.
- Cook Farfalle pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and cool on a tray with olive oil.
- Fry bacon strips in a skillet over low heat until crispy; then chop.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with half of the Ranch dressing.
- Add lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onions, bacon, BBQ sauce, and remaining dressing; toss well.
- Serve immediately or chill for up to 3 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
