BLT Pasta Salad

This BLT Pasta Salad is not only a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich but also makes for a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a standout choice for summer meals or casual get-togethers. With its combination of turkey bacon, cherry tomatoes, and creamy dressing, this salad is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful and fresh: The combination of ingredients offers a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds with every bite.
• Versatile dish: Enjoy it as a side dish or main course. Great for BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep.
• Healthy alternative: This pasta salad is lighter than traditional versions while still being hearty and fulfilling.
• Make ahead: It can be made in advance and chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious BLT Pasta Salad, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks well.
• Mixing bowl: Important for combining ingredients easily without any mess.
• Whisk: Helps in blending the dressing ingredients thoroughly for a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

This amazing pasta salad recipe is like your favorite BLT sandwich, in salad form!

For the Pasta

• 12 oz. farfalle pasta noodles

For the Salad

• 10 slices of Turkey Bacon (cooked crisp and then broken into pieces)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (quartered)
• 2 cups of baby spinach
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper

For the Dressing

• 2/3 cup ranch dressing
• 1 heaping tbsp. mayonnaise (can sub sour cream or Greek yogurt)
• 2 tsp. dijon mustard
• 2 tsp. Italian dressing

How to Make BLT Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the farfalle pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain well once finished cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

1. While the pasta cooks, take a mixing bowl.
2. Add quartered cherry tomatoes and broken turkey bacon pieces into the bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, combine ranch dressing, mayonnaise (or sour cream/Greek yogurt), dijon mustard, and Italian dressing.
2. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Salad Ingredients

1. Once the pasta has cooled slightly after draining, add it to the mixing bowl with turkey bacon and tomatoes.
2. Stir everything together gently to mix well.
3. Add half of the prepared dressing to the pasta mixture; stir again to coat.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap or a lid; chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
2. Before serving, add baby spinach along with any remaining dressing; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Return to fridge until ready to serve.

Enjoy this refreshing BLT Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

How to Serve BLT Pasta Salad

Serving BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful way to impress your guests or enjoy a quick meal. This versatile dish can be presented in various ways that enhance its flavor and appeal.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta salad in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves. This creates a relaxed dining atmosphere.

Individual Bowls

• For a more formal presentation, portion the salad into individual bowls. Garnish each with extra cherry tomatoes and baby spinach for color.

Picnic Style

• Pack the BLT Pasta Salad in mason jars for an easy picnic option. Layer the ingredients to keep it fresh and visually appealing.

Party Platter

• Serve the pasta salad on a platter surrounded by fresh veggies or crackers. This makes it an attractive centerpiece for gatherings.

Side Dish for Grilled Meats

• Pair this pasta salad with grilled chicken or turkey. The flavors complement one another perfectly, making it a great side dish for summer barbecues.

How to Perfect BLT Pasta Salad

To elevate your BLT Pasta Salad, consider these simple tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh tomatoes and spinach will add vibrant flavors, making your salad more enjoyable.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste the salad before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate.
• Chill before serving – Letting the salad chill allows flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing overall taste.
• Add crunch – Consider adding chopped nuts or crispy vegetables like bell peppers for extra texture.
• Customize with herbs – Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to give your salad a unique twist.
• Mix up the dressing – Try using different dressings like vinaigrette for a lighter option, if desired.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with your BLT Pasta Salad can create a satisfying meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – These flavorful skewers are easy to prepare and complement the pasta salad well.
2. Vegetable Platter – A colorful array of fresh veggies served with hummus adds crunch and freshness to your meal.
3. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for mopping up any dressing left on plates.
4. Caprese Salad – The combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides freshness that pairs nicely with pasta dishes.
5. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the pasta salad.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – These can be filled with rice, beans, or quinoa, providing protein while being colorful and tasty.
7. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender brings warmth and depth to your meal.
8. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a seasonal touch that is always a hit at summer gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your BLT Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions for al dente texture.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling your salad can leave it lacking in flavor. Let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality ingredients can impact taste. Opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality turkey bacon for best results.
• Adding Spinach Too Early: If you add spinach right after mixing, it may wilt. Wait until just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
• Not Balancing Flavors: If the dressing is too tangy or bland, taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional dressing as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing BLT Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the ingredients.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing for up to 2 months.

Reheating BLT Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to warm without drying out.
• Microwave: Warm individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly.
• Stovetop: On low heat, stir gently while adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about BLT Pasta Salad.

What is a BLT Pasta Salad?

BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, combining pasta with turkey bacon, tomatoes, and spinach dressed in a creamy sauce.

Can I customize my BLT Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado or cucumbers for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I make a vegetarian version of BLT Pasta Salad?

You can replace turkey bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it entirely and use more veggies like bell peppers for added crunch.

What can I serve with BLT Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish as a side dish. It also works great for potlucks or picnics.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Pasta Salad offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures that appeals to many tastes. It’s versatile enough for gatherings or casual dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a unique twist!

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

📖 Recipe Card

Print

BLT Pasta Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this refreshing BLT Pasta Salad, a delightful twist on the classic sandwich! Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, and family meals, this dish combines tender farfalle pasta with crispy turkey bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach. Tossed in a creamy ranch dressing with a hint of tang from Dijon mustard, every bite is a burst of flavor that will impress your guests.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz. farfalle pasta noodles
• 10 slices turkey bacon (cooked crisp)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (quartered)
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 2/3 cup ranch dressing
• 1 heaping tbsp. mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
• 2 tsp. Dijon mustard

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain and cool slightly.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine quartered cherry tomatoes and broken turkey bacon.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
4. Add cooled pasta to the mixing bowl and stir gently with half the dressing to coat.
5. Chill for at least one hour before serving; add baby spinach and remaining dressing just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 30mg