Summer BLT Pasta Salad

Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to whip up a delightful Summer BLT Pasta Salad. Imagine sinking your fork into a bowl filled with al dente pasta, crispy bacon chunks, juicy tomatoes, and fresh greens, all swimming in a creamy dressing that sings of sunshine. refreshing Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad The vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas will have you dreaming of backyard barbecues and picnic spreads.

Every summer, I recall family gatherings where this very salad graced our table, stealing the spotlight away from even Aunt Edna’s famous potato salad. The laughter, the sun-soaked afternoons, and the delightful crunch of this salad make it an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, this dish promises to be the star of any meal.

I still remember the time my cousin took one bite of this salad and declared it better than dessert!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because its spiral shape holds onto all that tasty dressing and ingredients.
• Crispy Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a satisfying crunch; it’s worth the extra effort.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe cherry tomatoes; their sweetness adds a lovely contrast against the savory flavors.
• Fresh Lettuce: Opt for romaine or iceberg for that refreshing crunch; wash and dry thoroughly before adding.
• Green Onions: These add a mild oniony flavor that brightens up the whole salad; slice them thinly.
• Mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand for creaminess; mix with yogurt or sour cream for extra tang if desired.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Just a splash enhances flavor without overpowering; it adds brightness to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these staples for seasoning; they bring out all the flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot over high heat. Add salt generously before tossing in 8 ounces of rotini pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.

Crisp the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 6 slices of thick-cut bacon until crispy and golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer bacon to paper towels to absorb excess grease before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Stir well until smooth for that creamy goodness everyone loves in pasta salads. For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with pasta recipe.

Add Fresh Ingredients: Toss in 1 cup each of halved cherry tomatoes and chopped lettuce along with sliced green onions into your mixing bowl. Then sprinkle in cooked bacon pieces for an irresistible crunch. For more inspiration, check out this fresh herbed tuna salad recipe.

Combine Everything: Gently fold in drained pasta into your bowl filled with fresh ingredients and dressing mixture. Stir carefully to coat everything evenly without breaking up the pasta.

Serve & Enjoy!: Transfer your Summer BLT Pasta Salad into a serving bowl! For an impressive presentation, garnish with additional green onions or crumbled bacon on top before serving chilled or at room temperature. cheeseburger-inspired pasta salad

Now that we’ve created this vibrant dish together, go ahead and enjoy those summer vibes while savoring every flavorful bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the ideal Summer BLT Pasta Salad, cook your pasta al dente first, then cool it under cold water. tangy dill pickle pasta salad While it cools, prepare your toppings and dressing to enhance flavor and streamline your assembly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes or even add grilled corn for an extra crunch. grilled corn and avocado salad Experiment with different dressings like ranch or balsamic vinaigrette based on your preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to reheat, add a splash of olive oil to keep it moist and prevent sticking.

Sharing this dish at summer barbecues has always brought laughter and compliments, especially when friends ask for the recipe and I proudly share my secrets.

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for Summer BLT Pasta Salad?

Short pastas like rotini or fusilli hold dressing well and complement other ingredients.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance; just keep it refrigerated until serving.

How do I make this salad vegetarian-friendly?

Simply omit bacon and use extra veggies or plant-based bacon alternatives for that crunch.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Summer BLT Pasta Salad

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• Author: Gordon Calloway
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Experience summer in a bowl with this vibrant Summer BLT Pasta Salad. Combining al dente rotini pasta, crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh greens, all enveloped in a creamy dressing, this dish is perfect for any gathering. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will evoke nostalgic memories of sunny family barbecues and outdoor picnics.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. **Cook the Pasta**: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the rotini for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. 2. **Crisp the Bacon**: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Transfer to paper towels to absorb grease and chop into pieces.
3. 3. **Prepare the Dressing**: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar; mix until smooth.
4. 4. **Combine Ingredients**: Add chopped lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced green onions, and cooked bacon to the dressing. Gently fold in cooled pasta until evenly coated.
5. 5. **Serve**: Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra green onions or bacon if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 30mg