BLT Pasta Salad

This BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, combining the flavors you love in a refreshing and satisfying dish. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for family dinners, this salad is both easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of turkey bacon, cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach creates a colorful and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The mix of turkey bacon, ranch dressing, and fresh veggies ensures every bite is bursting with taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or a light lunch; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this salad ahead of time and chill it for enhanced flavors; it’s great for meal prep!
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute ingredients to fit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this BLT Pasta Salad is simple! Just gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta, ensuring even cooking without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients effortlessly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps blend dressing ingredients smoothly for perfect consistency.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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

• 12 oz. farfalle pasta noodles
• 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: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
2. Add the farfalle pasta noodles, cooking according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Once cooked, drain well using a colander.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the quartered cherry tomatoes and broken pieces of Turkey Bacon.
2. Stir gently to mix these ingredients together while you prepare the dressing.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, mayonnaise, dijon mustard, and Italian dressing until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Once the pasta has cooled slightly, add it to the bowl with the turkey bacon and tomatoes.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
3. Add half of the prepared dressing and mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
2. One hour before serving, gently fold in the baby spinach. Drizzle in remaining dressing, adding salt and pepper to taste.
3. Return to fridge until ready to serve.

Enjoy your fresh and flavorful BLT Pasta Salad!

How to Serve BLT Pasta Salad

BLT Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can complement any meal. It’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful pasta salad.

Family Style

• Serve the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table, allowing family members to help themselves. This encourages sharing and adds a casual vibe to your meal.

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant presentation, divide the salad into individual bowls or mason jars. This makes for a great grab-and-go option for lunches or picnics.

As a Side Dish

• Pair BLT Pasta Salad with grilled chicken or turkey burgers for a complete meal. The creamy dressing complements the savory flavors of grilled meats perfectly.

At Potlucks

• Bring this pasta salad to potlucks and gatherings. It’s always a hit and easy to make in large quantities. Plus, it stays fresh for hours!

With Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread or dinner rolls. The bread provides a nice texture contrast and is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.

How to Perfect BLT Pasta Salad

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

• Cook pasta al dente: This keeps the noodles firm and prevents them from becoming mushy when mixed with dressing.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes add vibrant flavors and nutrients, making your salad more enjoyable.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps meld the flavors together, creating a more delicious dish.
• Experiment with dressings: While ranch is classic, try different dressings like vinaigrette or homemade blends for varied flavors.
• Add crunch: Consider mixing in nuts or seeds for added texture, making each bite exciting.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Pasta Salad

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

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and are easy to grill alongside other dishes.
2. Veggie Platter: A colorful array of fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provides crunch and freshness.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the pasta salad.
4. Caprese Salad: This classic Italian salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complements the pasta’s richness.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and pairs well with creamy dishes like our pasta salad.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob makes for a sweet side that’s perfect during summer months.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide comfort food vibes alongside your refreshing salad.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer an eye-catching addition that’s also nutritious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your BLT Pasta Salad from good to great. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and ruins the salad’s texture. Make sure to follow the cooking time on the package closely.
• Skipping the chilling step: Skipping the chilling time can lead to a less flavorful salad. Allow at least an hour in the fridge for the flavors to meld.
• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning properly may leave your salad bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Adding spinach too early: Adding spinach too soon can make it wilted and soggy. Incorporate it right before serving for freshness.
• Not adjusting dressing consistency: If your dressing is too thick, it may not coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust with a little water or additional ranch dressing as needed.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing BLT Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of the pasta and vegetables.
• If you do freeze, use within 1 month for best results.

Reheating BLT Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warm, covering with foil to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat while stirring, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making BLT Pasta Salad:

What type of pasta is best for BLT Pasta Salad?

You can use farfalle, rotini, or any short pasta that holds dressing well. Farfalle adds a fun shape!

Can I make BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just chill it in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.

How can I customize my BLT Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers, or swap turkey bacon for chicken or beef options for variety.

Is this recipe suitable for outdoor gatherings?

Absolutely! The BLT Pasta Salad is great for picnics and barbecues since it’s served cold and holds up well outside.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on your favorite sandwich, combining fresh ingredients with hearty pasta. It’s versatile enough for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste!