If you are craving something that hits all the right notes of crisp, creamy, savory, and fresh, this BLT Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It takes the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato combo you love and gives it a pasta twist that makes it perfectly hearty for lunch, a potluck, or any gathering. With tender rotini, crunchy romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crispy bacon all tossed in a tangy, garlicky dressing, this salad brings layers of texture and flavor that will have you coming back for seconds — and thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving in, let’s talk about the magic behind this BLT Pasta Salad Recipe. The ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of taste, color, and texture that makes this salad so crave-worthy.
- 6 oz uncooked rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the dressing wonderfully, making every bite flavorful.
- 4 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce: Adds fresh crunch and bright green color for a refreshing contrast.
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness complements the smoky bacon and adds vibrant red pops.
- 8 oz bacon: Crispy, smoky, and salty—this ingredient is the star that gives the salad its signature BLT flavor.
- 1/3 cup red onion: Finely chopped for a subtle sharpness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup Ranch dressing: Creamy and herbaceous, it’s the base that ties everything together.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Gives the dressing a luscious tang and smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Keeps the dressing rich and helps it cling beautifully to every ingredient.
- 2 garlic cloves: Minced to add a punch of savory depth to the dressing.
- 3 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens up the dressing with zesty freshness.
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overwhelming.
- ⅛ tsp ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that rounds out the taste.
How to Make BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta perfectly
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Once cooked, drain it well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. This step ensures your salad stays chilled and the pasta doesn’t clump together.
Step 2: Whisk together the creamy dressing
In a small bowl, combine Ranch dressing, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. This dressing is the magic glue for your salad—tangy, rich, and bursting with flavor that complements every ingredient perfectly.
Step 3: Combine fresh ingredients with bacon and pasta
Grab a large salad bowl and toss together the cooled pasta, chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon pieces, and finely chopped red onion. Mixing these ingredients now lets the flavors mingle gently before the dressing joins the party.
Step 4: Dress the salad just before serving
Right before serving, pour the creamy dressing over the salad to your liking and toss everything gently but thoroughly. This way, the fresh lettuce stays crisp and the flavors remain vibrant. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for the perfect balance.
How to Serve BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your BLT Pasta Salad Recipe even more, sprinkle extra crispy bacon on top for some crunch in every bite. Fresh chopped chives or finely sliced green onions add a mild onion kick and a pop of green. For a little color and burst of flavor, a few halved cherry tomatoes on top never hurt.
Side Dishes
This salad makes a fantastic side or main dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a full meal, or alongside some buttery garlic bread to soak up all the creamy dressing. It’s also a perfect potluck addition, easily holding its texture and flavor alongside other picnic favorites like deviled eggs or fruit salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to wow your guests? Serve this BLT Pasta Salad Recipe in hollowed-out large tomatoes or crisp lettuce cups for a fun twist. Layer it in a clear glass bowl to showcase the bright colors, or even spread it as a vibrant base on a large platter topped with extra bacon and greens for a picnic-ready presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer leftover BLT Pasta Salad Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Because the lettuce can soften over time, it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day, but the flavors actually mellow and improve slightly after resting overnight.
Freezing
This salad is best fresh, so freezing is not recommended because the lettuce and dressing won’t maintain their texture after thawing. Instead, cook extra pasta and bacon if you want components ready for a quick remake later.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t usually necessary or recommended. If you want warm pasta on a chilly day, serve the pasta and bacon warm, then add the fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and dressing just before eating for that fresh, crisp contrast we love.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the BLT Pasta Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is perfect because it holds the dressing well, other short pasta shapes like penne, shells, or bowties work beautifully too. Just make sure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.
Is there a way to make the salad vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! Simply swap the bacon for smoked tempeh, coconut bacon, or crispy roasted chickpeas to keep that smoky crunch while catering to a vegetarian diet without losing the salad’s soul.
How long can I prepare this salad in advance?
The salad is best assembled fresh, but you can prepare and store the cooked pasta and dressing separately up to a day ahead. Combine everything just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and vibrant.
Can I substitute the Ranch dressing with something else?
You can! A creamy Caesar or blue cheese dressing can give a delicious twist. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs, garlic, and lemon juice also makes a fantastic dressing base.
What’s the best way to crisp up bacon for the salad?
For perfectly crispy bacon, bake it in the oven on a lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method cooks evenly and keeps the bacon flat and crunchy without messy splatters.
Final Thoughts
This BLT Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a hug from the inside — comforting yet fresh, familiar yet delightfully different. Whether you’re bringing it to a barbecue, packing it for lunch, or just craving something easy and delicious, this salad hits every mark. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a fast favorite for all your gatherings and family meals!
Print
BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings as a side salad
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A fresh and flavorful BLT Pasta Salad combining tender rotini pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and savory bacon, all tossed in a creamy homemade ranch-based dressing. Perfect as a side dish for summertime gatherings or easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 6 oz uncooked rotini pasta (about 2 cups)
- 4 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce (rinsed, chopped and spun-dry)
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/3 cup red onion (finely chopped)
Meat
- 8 oz bacon
Dressing
- 1/4 cup Ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Ranch dressing, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sea salt, and ground black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Toss Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, cooked and crumbled bacon, and chopped red onion. Toss gently to mix evenly.
- Add Dressing and Serve: Just before serving, pour the prepared dressing over the salad to taste and gently toss until all ingredients are well coated. Serve immediately for best texture.
Notes
- For best texture, cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Use freshly cooked, crisp bacon for optimal flavor and texture.
- You can substitute iceberg lettuce for romaine if preferred.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate to enhance flavor integration.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain crispness of veggies and bacon.
