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Easy Blt Pasta Salad
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Easy BLT Pasta Salad

This Easy BLT Pasta Salad combines crispy turkey bacon, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing tossed with tender pasta for a delicious and versatile dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick meals.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: BLT, Easy, Pasta Salad, Potluck, Quick, Summer, Turkey Bacon
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 8 slices turkey bacon (or any preferred bacon alternative)
  • 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
  • ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.
  • While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped turkey bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give it a good toss and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Small Bowl

Notes

Use rotini or bowtie pasta for the best texture, cool the pasta completely before tossing to avoid sogginess, and add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp. Variations include vegetarian options by skipping bacon, adding spicy elements, or using different greens and cheeses. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping lettuce separate if possible.