BLT Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Side Dish That Steals the Show
A fresh, creamy, and satisfying BLT Pasta Salad loaded with crispy bacon, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a homemade ranch-style dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, and potlucks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 12 slices thick-cut bacon
- 4 cups fresh lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; cool on a baking sheet
- Cook bacon until crispy; drain, cool, and chop into 1/2-inch pieces
- Prepare vegetables: chop lettuce, halve tomatoes, dice red onion
- Whisk together mayo, buttermilk, chives, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and vinegar
- Combine cooled pasta with dressing in a large bowl; gently toss
- Add bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, and red onion; toss gently to combine
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve cold
Notes
- Don’t rinse pasta after cooking—the starch helps dressing adhere
- Add lettuce closer to serving time to prevent wilting
- Makes a great make-ahead dish for parties and potlucks
- Can be refrigerated for up to 4 days (without lettuce)
- Easily customizable with your favorite add-ins