BLT Pasta Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that screams summer and brings everyone together, then this BLT Pasta Salad is just what you need! This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic BLT, combining the best of both worlds in a creamy and flavorful salad. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or those sunny BBQs where you want something light yet satisfying. Trust me, once you serve this at your next picnic, it’ll be the star of the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this pasta salad in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomato in this fun pasta format.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after it sits for a while, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this BLT Pasta Salad. You might even have some of these staples in your kitchen already!

For the Pasta Salad

• 16 ounces uncooked DeLallo Shellbows
• 4 cups chopped lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
• 10 ounces little tomatoes (grape or cherry), cut into halves
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

For the Dressing

• 1 tablespoon bacon fat (from frying the bacon)
• 1 cup mayo
• 2 tablespoons DeLallo Simply Pesto
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Variations

This BLT Pasta Salad is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try crispy chickpeas or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some cucumber or bell peppers for extra texture and freshness.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute vegan mayo and cheese to make this salad plant-based friendly.
• Herb it up: Fresh basil or parsley can add a burst of flavor; sprinkle them right before serving!

How to Make BLT Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cooking the shellbows until they are al dente gives them just the right amount of bite. Once they’re done, drain them and let them cool in a colander. This step ensures your pasta doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Fry the Bacon

While your pasta cools, heat up a skillet and fry those bacon pieces until they are crispy! Reserve one tablespoon of that delicious bacon fat for your dressing—this adds a wonderful depth of flavor. After frying, place your crispy bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the reserved bacon fat with mayo, pesto, white vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and salt & pepper. Mix until smooth. This creamy pesto dressing is what makes this salad irresistible!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once your pasta has cooled down completely, transfer it to a large salad bowl. Add in all your remaining salad ingredients: chopped lettuce, halved tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, red onion, and that crispy bacon.

Step 5: Dress It Up

Pour that luscious dressing over everything and give it a good toss. Make sure all those ingredients are coated nicely! Taste it and adjust with more salt & pepper if needed. Serve immediately for an unforgettable side dish that will disappear in no time!

Pro Tips for Making BLT Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect BLT pasta salad is easy with a few handy tips that will elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes make a world of difference in flavor and texture, ensuring your salad is bright and delicious.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the shellbows just right prevents them from becoming mushy in the salad. This gives your dish a satisfying bite that holds up well with the creamy dressing.
• Customize the dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing by adding herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness. This allows you to personalize the flavor profile to suit your taste!
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious experience.
• Add protein alternatives: If you want to amp up the protein without using bacon, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken for a hearty twist.

How to Serve BLT Pasta Salad

This BLT pasta salad is not only tasty but also visually appealing! Presenting it beautifully can enhance its appeal at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling some fresh basil or parsley on top adds a pop of color and enhances the fresh flavors.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkling some red pepper flakes can spice things up beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetable skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms are perfect alongside this pasta salad, providing a smoky flavor that complements it well.
• Crispy garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread serves as the perfect crunch factor while soaking up any leftover creamy dressing.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet contrast to the savory pasta salad, making it an ideal side for summer picnics.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides extra texture and pairs wonderfully with the creamy elements of this dish.

Now you’re ready to dig into this delightful BLT pasta salad! Whether it’s for a BBQ, picnic, or just a simple family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This BLT pasta salad is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge, making it an ideal option for busy weekdays or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of serving to ensure freshness.
• Consume within 3-5 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta salad if needed.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture may change once thawed.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta salad overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Gently mix and add a splash of mayo or dressing to revive its creaminess if needed.
• Serve cold, as this dish is best enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious BLT pasta salad? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use a different type of pasta for BLT Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any short pasta like fusilli or penne. Just ensure it cooks al dente for the best texture.

How can I make this BLT Pasta Salad vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using a plant-based alternative like coconut bacon or smoked tempeh.

What can I serve with BLT Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, chicken breasts, or even as a side dish at your next BBQ!

How long does BLT Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-5 days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this BLT pasta salad as delightful as I do! It’s a refreshing twist on traditional flavors and is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy preparing it, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations you try out! Happy cooking!