Refreshing BLT Pasta Salad Recipe – Summer Delight!

Indulging in a bowl of BLT Pasta Salad is like diving into a pool of summer flavors – refreshing, tangy, and downright delightful. Imagine the crunch of crispy bacon mingling with the juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, all tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta and a creamy dressing that ties it all together like a warm hug. This dish isn’t just a salad; it’s a party on your plate that will have your taste buds dancing. For more inspiration, check out this Hearty dinner recipes.

Every bite of this BLT Pasta Salad reminds me of backyard barbecues with friends and family, where laughter fills the air and food reigns supreme. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, perfect for potlucks or picnics under the sun. Trust me; once you try it, those summer vibes will last all year long.

I remember the first time I brought this dish to my friend’s barbecue. Everyone raved about it, and I was hailed as the culinary genius of the evening!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Fusilli Pasta: This spiral-shaped pasta holds onto the dressing beautifully for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Crispy Bacon: I usually use thick-cut bacon for added crunch and flavor, but feel free to adjust based on preference.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for sweetness and vibrant color that pops in the salad.
• Fresh Lettuce: Crisp romaine or butter lettuce adds freshness and texture while balancing the richness of bacon.
• Mayonnaise: A creamy base that blends everything together; opt for full-fat or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tangy kick that balances out the creaminess beautifully.
• Chives: Fresh chives provide a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste profile without overpowering.
• Salt & Pepper: Always essential for seasoning; adjust to suit your taste preferences.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot over high heat. Add fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Crisp Up That Bacon!: In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy and golden brown. Drain excess fat on paper towels; this step ensures extra crunch!

Toss in Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes and chopped lettuce with cooled pasta. The bright colors will make you smile!

Create Your Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth. The aroma will make your mouth water.

Combine Everything!: Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated. Be careful not to squish those beautiful tomatoes!

Add Finishing Touches!: Sprinkle chopped chives over your salad before serving. Give one last gentle toss so those flavors meld beautifully together.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful BLT Pasta Salad! Enjoy every crunchy bite with friends or at family gatherings – it’s sure to impress! For more inspiration, check out this Appetizer ideas for gatherings recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente before prepping your ingredients. While it cools, fry the bacon until crispy for maximum flavor. Toss everything together once cooled for a refreshing dish that’s ready to impress.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients! Try adding avocado for creaminess or using farfalle instead of rotini. Experimenting with dressings can also give your salad a fun twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, enjoy cold without reheating, as it maintains its fresh flavor and texture.

I remember the first time I made this dish for a barbecue; my friends devoured it within minutes and asked for seconds! Their smiles were worth every bit of effort.

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta in BLT Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works perfectly while keeping the flavors intact.

How do I keep the lettuce from wilting?

Add lettuce right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but add toppings like lettuce just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

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

📖 Recipe Card

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BLT Pasta Salad

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• Author: mydishtoday
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a vibrant bowl of BLT Pasta Salad, a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer. This salad combines the savory crunch of crispy bacon, the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes, and crisp lettuce, all tossed with fusilli pasta and a creamy dressing. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe will have your taste buds singing with joy!

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz fusilli pasta
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups romaine or butter lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and chopped lettuce.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
6. Add crispy bacon and chives; give it one last gentle toss before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling, Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 30mg