Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that’s both easy and satisfying, you’ve come to the right place! My Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad is a beloved recipe in our home. It perfectly combines the classic flavors of a BLT with the heartiness of pasta, all while being gluten and dairy free. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this salad shines as a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for those moments when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

This salad not only tastes great but also brings everyone together. The fresh ingredients and vibrant colors make it as beautiful as it is tasty. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe; I’m sure it will become a favorite in your household too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad is perfect for when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy something homemade.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the familiar flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes combined with pasta—making it a hit at any dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This pasta salad stores well in the fridge, so you can prepare it in advance for busy days or potlucks.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and zesty dressing makes every bite refreshing and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to create this fantastic dish. They are easy to find and will help you whip up this flavorful salad in no time!

For the Salad

• 1 box (12 oz) of gluten-free pasta spirals
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 package of cooked bacon, crumbled (12 oz)
• 1 box of cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
• 1 head of romaine lettuce, cleaned and chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup red onion, chopped finely
• 2/3 cup plant-based mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh chives for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily make swaps based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of bacon, try using turkey bacon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
• Change up the dressing: Experiment with different dressings like balsamic vinaigrette or lemon-tahini sauce for unique flavors.
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat in your salad!

How to Make Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your gluten-free pasta spirals and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta adds a delightful texture to your salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, chop your avocado, slice your cherry tomatoes in half, and clean your romaine lettuce. Having these fresh ingredients ready will ensure that each bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, combine finely chopped red onion, plant-based mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. This dressing ties everything together with its creamy texture and zesty kick!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your pasta has cooled slightly after draining (you don’t want it hot), toss it into a large mixing bowl along with the avocado, cherry tomatoes, romaine lettuce, crumbled bacon, and dressing. Gently mix everything until well coated—this is where all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Transfer your Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad to a serving dish or individual bowls. If desired, sprinkle some chopped chives on top for an extra touch. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy—either way, it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad

Making this pasta salad is a breeze, and a few simple tips can make it even better!

• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the gluten-free pasta just until it’s firm to the bite helps maintain texture in the salad, preventing it from becoming mushy as it sits in the dressing.
• Use ripe avocados: Choose avocados that are perfectly ripe for a creamy texture. This adds richness to the salad without needing dairy, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes lets all the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a more delicious dish.
• Customize your bacon alternative: If you want to keep it plant-based, you can substitute traditional bacon with crispy chickpeas or tempeh bacon. This keeps your salad flavorful while maintaining its gluten-free and dairy-free integrity.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate your salad’s flavor profile. Fresh herbs bring brightness and freshness that complement the other ingredients perfectly.

How to Serve Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad

This pasta salad not only tastes fantastic but also looks beautiful on any table setting. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh chives: A sprinkle of chives adds a lovely pop of color and a subtle onion flavor that enhances the dish.
• Sliced olives: Black or green olives can contribute a briny touch that complements the creamy avocado and sweet tomatoes.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms grilled to perfection make for a tasty side that pairs well with the freshness of the pasta salad.
• Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with your favorite spices provide an enjoyable texture contrast and boost protein content—perfect for a filling meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A mix of leafy greens topped with cucumber and lemon vinaigrette offers refreshing notes that balance out the richness of the pasta salad.
• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad combines seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and citrus for a sweet finish to your meal—perfectly light after enjoying a hearty pasta dish!

Enjoy making and sharing this Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad! It’s sure to be a hit at any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or summer picnics.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• This salad can be kept for up to 3 days.
• If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, consider adding a little more plant-based mayonnaise before serving.

Freezing

• While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked pasta separately if you want to store it longer.
• To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer bag and remove as much air as possible.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before mixing with the remaining ingredients.

Reheating

• This salad is best served cold, but if you’d like to warm it up:
• Gently heat the pasta in a pot over low heat until warmed through.
• Add a splash of plant-based mayonnaise to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty dish!

Can I make Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh.

What type of gluten-free pasta should I use for this BLT Pasta Salad?

You can use any gluten-free pasta spirals you prefer! Look for options made from rice, corn, or quinoa for great texture and flavor.

How do I customize my Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers. You could also swap out the bacon with a plant-based alternative for more variety!

How long does Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in the fridge, this salad will stay fresh for about 3 days. Just remember to give it a quick stir before serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Quick Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a delightful way to bring friends and family together around good food. Whether it’s for a summer gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with me!