If you love the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich but want to shake things up a bit, then you’re in for a treat with this delightful recipe for BLT Pasta Salad. The combination of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and al dente pasta all tossed in a creamy dressing will make this dish a new favorite in your summer menu rotation. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish for a backyard barbecue or a satisfying main course for a light lunch, this BLT Pasta Salad is sure to impress.
BLT Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 8 oz dry pasta (such as bow ties or penne)
– 8 slices of bacon
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tbsp white vinegar
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, chopped Romaine lettuce, and bacon pieces.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss to make sure the dressing is well distributed. You can garnish with additional bacon crumbles and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
8. Serve the BLT Pasta Salad chilled and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in every bite. This dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side for your next summer BBQ.
9. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give the salad a quick stir before serving again to freshen it up.
Prepare this BLT Pasta Salad for your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time. The creamy dressing, savory bacon, and fresh veggies make this dish a winner for any occasion. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!
