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–+ servings
BLT Pasta Salad

Delicious BLT Pasta Salad for Easy Summer Gatherings

A vibrant twist on the classic sandwich, this BLT Pasta Salad combines turkey bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce for a refreshing summer dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini or Penne You can substitute with farfalle or elbow macaroni if desired.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Consider Greek yogurt or vegan mayo for a lighter, dairy-free alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing Feel free to use a dairy-free ranch for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Replace with lime juice for a refreshing twist.
  • 1 tbsp Turkey Bacon Drippings Omit for a lighter version if preferred.
For the Salad
  • 6 oz Turkey Bacon Plant-based bacon works for a vegetarian diet.
  • 2 cups Diced Fresh Tomatoes Any ripe tomatoes can be swapped in.
  • 4 cups Chopped Romaine Lettuce You can experiment with spinach for a different green.
  • 1 medium Chopped Red Onion Green onions make a milder substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Minced Fresh Basil or Parsley Dried herbs can substitute in lesser amounts.
  • 1 medium Crumbled Avocado Swap with nut cheese for a dairy-free option.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • spoon
  • Tongs
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water, add the rotini or penne, and cook until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Allow to cool.
  2. Prepare the Turkey Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add turkey bacon, and cook 6–8 minutes until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 tbsp drippings.
  3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, lemon juice, and reserved turkey bacon drippings in a bowl until creamy and smooth.
  4. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, diced tomatoes, chopped lettuce, chopped red onion, and turkey bacon. Toss gently.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until thoroughly coated.
  6. Add Avocado and Herbs: Gently fold in crumbled avocado and minced herbs, being careful not to overmix.
  7. Chill and Serve: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. Toss before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance. Keep avocado separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

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