Name: Creamy BLT Pasta Salad: 6 Steps to a Perfect Picnic Dish
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) rotini pasta; 8-10 slices thick-cut bacon; 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 green onions, thinly sliced; 3/4 cup (180ml) mayonnaise; 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

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Creamy BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer with its fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Combining crispy bacon, crunchy romaine, and juicy tomatoes, this salad is perfect for picnics or family gatherings. With a tangy dressing that adds a creamy touch, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy BLT Pasta Salad

This creamy bacon lettuce tomato pasta salad offers multiple benefits that make it a must-try! First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, taking only 28 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand. Third, it’s a hearty dish that can serve as a side or a main course, making it perfect for potlucks. Fourth, it boasts a gluten-free option, catering to diverse dietary needs. Additionally, the combination of flavors—smoky bacon, fresh lettuce, and sweet tomatoes—creates a satisfying and balanced meal. Lastly, this BLT pasta salad with creamy dressing is perfect for summer gatherings, offering a refreshing taste that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients for Creamy BLT Pasta Salad

Gather these items:

12 oz (340g) rotini pasta
8-10 slices thick-cut bacon
2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 green onions, thinly sliced
3/4 cup (180ml) mayonnaise
1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Creamy BLT Pasta Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat and prep: Boil a large pot of salted water. Chop romaine lettuce, halve cherry tomatoes, and slice green onions. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the pasta: Add rotini pasta to boiling water and cook until al dente (9-11 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Shake off excess water.
Step 3: Cook the bacon: Crisp bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy (8-10 minutes). Drain on paper towels and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Make the dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and tangy.
Step 5: Toss it all together: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, romaine, cherry tomatoes, and green onions. Pour dressing over and gently toss to coat evenly. Fold in crispy bacon just before serving.
Step 6: Chill and serve (optional): Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour to meld flavors. Add bacon right before serving if chilled.

Creamy BLT Pasta Salad: 6 Steps to a Perfect Picnic Dish - Creamy Blt Pasta Salad - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy BLT Pasta Salad

Keep these in mind:

Use thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness and flavor.
Let the pasta cool completely to prevent wilting the lettuce.
For added freshness, include some chopped herbs like parsley or basil.
This salad can be made a day ahead, but add the bacon right before serving to maintain its crunch.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy BLT Pasta Salad

This easy creamy BLT pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or burgers for a complete meal. It’s also great as a standalone dish at summer barbecues. Consider serving it with crusty bread or as part of a buffet spread at parties.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy BLT Pasta Salad

To store, place the creamy pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed within a day or two. If you want to meal prep, prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy BLT Pasta Salad

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy BLT Pasta Salad?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients and ensuring the pasta is perfectly cooked. Rinse it under cold water to halt cooking, which keeps it al dente. Also, make sure to add the bacon last to retain its crispness in the salad.

Can I make Creamy BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made ahead of time. Just prepare it a few hours before serving and keep it in the refrigerator. To keep the bacon crispy, add it just before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy BLT Pasta Salad?

Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it can become mushy. Additionally, make sure to cool the pasta before mixing to prevent wilting the lettuce. Finally, ensure you season adequately for the best flavor.

Variations of Creamy BLT Pasta Salad You Can Try

There are several delicious variations you can explore! For a healthier twist, consider a vegetarian creamy pasta salad option by substituting bacon with roasted chickpeas. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. If you’re looking for a heartier dish, try incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp. Finally, experiment with different dressings by adding pesto or ranch for a unique flavor.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a sweet treat. If you’re interested in more salad ideas, consider our Thanksgiving salads for inspiration.

For more information on the health benefits of fresh ingredients, you can visit Healthline.