BLT Pasta Salad

This BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, making it perfect for picnics, parties, or a quick lunch. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this salad is not only visually appealing but also versatile enough to accompany any meal. The combination of turkey bacon, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This pasta salad comes together in just 15 minutes of prep and cook time, making it a fantastic option for busy days.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of turkey bacon, cherry tomatoes, and spinach provides a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues, potlucks, or enjoy it as a light meal on its own.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the dressing based on what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this salad in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for an even tastier dish.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious BLT Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta quickly and evenly. A good pot ensures that your pasta cooks perfectly al dente.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling, making mixing easy and efficient.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending dressing ingredients smoothly. A good whisk can make your dressings creamy and well-combined.

Ingredients

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

For the Pasta Salad

• 12 oz. farfalle pasta noodles
• 10 slices of turkey bacon (cooked crisp and then broken into pieces)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (quartered)
• 2 cups 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. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the farfalle pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta well once cooked.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. While the pasta is cooking, place quartered cherry tomatoes and cooked turkey bacon into a mixing bowl.
2. Mix them gently to combine.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, add ranch dressing, mayonnaise (or substitute), dijon mustard, and Italian dressing.
2. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

1. Once the pasta is drained, add it to the mixing bowl with turkey bacon and tomatoes.
2. Stir everything together thoroughly.
3. Add half of the prepared dressing to the mixture; cover it with plastic wrap or a lid.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

1. Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to chill.
2. One hour before serving, add baby spinach and pour in the remaining dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste before returning to the fridge until ready to serve.

Enjoy your refreshing BLT Pasta Salad!

How to Serve BLT Pasta Salad

BLT Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, this salad is sure to please everyone.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad can be served on its own as a light meal. The combination of turkey bacon and fresh veggies makes it filling and satisfying.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It complements the flavors of meat dishes beautifully.

At Potlucks or Picnics

• BLT Pasta Salad is perfect for gatherings. Its cold serving temperature makes it refreshing on warm days, and it’s easy to transport.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread or garlic knots. The bread can be used to scoop up the salad or enjoyed with the dressing.

Topped with Extra Veggies

• Add sliced cucumbers or bell peppers on top for extra crunch and color. This enhances both the appearance and nutritional value of the dish.

How to Perfect BLT Pasta Salad

To ensure your BLT Pasta Salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. They will elevate the taste and texture of your dish.

• Use al dente pasta: Cooking pasta until it’s firm will help it hold its shape when mixed with the other ingredients.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour helps the flavors meld together nicely.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or red onion for enhanced flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper based on your preference.
• Consider leftovers: If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container for freshness but consume within a couple of days.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Pasta Salad

BLT Pasta Salad pairs well with many side dishes, making it easy to create a delicious meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Seasoned grilled chicken breasts can add protein and flavor, creating a well-rounded meal.
2. Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of grilled vegetables are not only tasty but also visually appealing.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast that complements the creamy pasta salad perfectly.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings summer vibes and pairs wonderfully with pasta salads.
5. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are ideal for scooping up salad and adding a comforting touch.
6. Caprese Salad: This fresh tomato and mozzarella salad adds brightness and goes well with any pasta dish.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers offer a hearty option that works nicely alongside pasta salads.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out savory dishes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious BLT Pasta Salad can be easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results.

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy. Always follow the recommended cooking time on the package and taste for doneness just before draining.
• Skipping the chill time: Not chilling the salad can result in flavors not blending well. Allow at least one hour in the fridge for optimal taste.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can make the salad bland. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to enhance all flavors before serving.
• Forgetting the dressing balance: Using too much or too little dressing can affect taste and texture. Start with half and adjust according to your preference.
• Adding spinach too early: Mixing spinach in too soon may cause it to wilt. Add it just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing BLT Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of ingredients like tomatoes and spinach.
• If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, but note that quality may degrade.

Reheating BLT Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making BLT Pasta Salad.

What is BLT Pasta Salad?

BLT Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish that combines classic BLT sandwich ingredients with pasta, creating a satisfying side or main course.

Can I use regular turkey bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon with regular turkey bacon if preferred. Just ensure it’s cooked crisp before adding.

How can I customize my BLT Pasta Salad?

You can add extra veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers, swap out dressings, or use different pasta shapes for variety!

What should I serve with BLT Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side for summer cookouts or picnics.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Pasta Salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a quick weeknight meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins!