BLT Pasta Salad

This refreshing BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the classic BLT sandwich into a vibrant, easy-to-make salad. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or just a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is not only delicious but also versatile. With its colorful ingredients and creamy dressing, it’s sure to impress your family and friends while being a breeze to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful: The combination of turkey bacon, fresh tomatoes, and spinach creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish or add grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for even better taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its appealing look and delicious taste, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are important for combining ingredients without spills and allowing ample space to mix thoroughly.
• Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth dressing by ensuring all ingredients are well blended together.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good pot allows even cooking of the pasta, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
• Colander: Draining the pasta properly prevents excess water from watering down your salad.

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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 of 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: Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a pot. Add the farfalle pasta noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain well.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

While the pasta is cooking:
* In a mixing bowl, combine quartered cherry tomatoes and broken turkey bacon pieces.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

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

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Once the pasta has cooled:
1. Add it to the bowl with tomatoes and turkey bacon.
2. Stir gently to combine everything.
3. Pour half of the dressing over the mixture and stir again.
4. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 5: Add Spinach Before Serving

One hour before serving:
1. Fold in baby spinach gently.
2. Drizzle with remaining dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Return to 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 enjoyed in many ways. Whether served at a picnic, BBQ, or family gathering, it makes for a refreshing side that complements various main dishes.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad can be served on its own as a light lunch or dinner option, perfect for warm days.

At a Potluck

• Bring this dish to potlucks; it’s always a crowd-pleaser and easy to share with others.

Paired with Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Portion out the pasta salad into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.

How to Perfect BLT Pasta Salad

To make your BLT Pasta Salad even more delightful, consider these simple tips.

• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures the pasta maintains its shape and texture in the salad.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp baby spinach to elevate the flavors.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Customize your dressing: Feel free to adjust the ranch dressing or add extra herbs for an added kick.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Pasta Salad

Looking for complementary sides? Here are some delicious options that pair well with BLT Pasta Salad.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and flavor, enhancing your meal.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and depth to your plate.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side that brings summer vibes to any gathering.
5. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet finish after savory dishes.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for scooping up leftover dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the BLT Pasta Salad, there are common pitfalls that can affect your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not allowing the salad to chill after mixing can lead to a less cohesive flavor. Chill it for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely for al dente pasta.
• Using low-quality dressing: A subpar dressing can ruin the salad. Choose a ranch dressing that you enjoy for the best taste.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season with salt and pepper can result in blandness. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old spinach and tomatoes will compromise freshness. Always select vibrant, fresh produce.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BLT Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of the vegetables and dressing.
• If you must freeze, store it in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.

Reheating BLT Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short increments until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about BLT Pasta Salad:

What makes this a BLT Pasta Salad?

The combination of turkey bacon, tomatoes, and spinach mirrors the classic flavors of a traditional BLT sandwich while being served cold.

Can I customize my BLT Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like avocado, bell peppers, or even grilled chicken for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of BLT Pasta Salad, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular farfalle noodles.

How long does it take to prepare BLT Pasta Salad?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional hour to chill, making it perfect for quick meal prep!

Final Thoughts

This BLT Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences by adding various veggies or proteins. Give this refreshing dish a try at your next gathering or as a quick weeknight side!