Summer BLT Pasta Salad

Name: Summer BLT Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 6 slices thick-cut bacon; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp yellow mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (optional), finely chopped

Posted on May 24, 2025

Print Recipe

The sun shines brightly, casting a golden hue over a vibrant bowl of Summer BLT Pasta Salad. Imagine biting into perfectly cooked pasta, mingling with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and refreshing lettuce—all drizzled with a creamy dressing that dances on your taste buds. delicious tortellini pasta salad The aromas wafting through your kitchen promise a culinary experience that’s as fun as it is delicious.

As you gather around the table with friends on a warm summer evening, this pasta salad becomes the star of the show. It’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or just when you want to impress your family without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. With each forkful, memories are created, laughter is shared, and conversations flow effortlessly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The Summer BLT Pasta Salad is quick to prepare, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights
Its burst of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds
The colorful ingredients create an eye-catching presentation that’s sure to impress guests at any gathering
This versatile dish can easily adapt to whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand

I vividly remember the first time I served this salad at a family BBQ; my cousin declared it “life-changing” while devouring his second helping.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Use rotini or fusilli for optimal sauce adherence; their curves catch all the flavors.
Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for that perfect crispy texture and smoky flavor; nothing beats it.
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose vibrant red tomatoes; their sweetness adds a pop of flavor and color.
Romaine Lettuce: Fresh romaine gives crunch and freshness; wash and dry it thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
Mayonnaise: A creamy base that holds everything together; consider using Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
Mustard: Adds zing; yellow mustard works well but feel free to experiment with dijon for extra depth.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning; don’t skip these—it’s where flavor begins!
Fresh Herbs (optional): Parsley or basil can elevate the flavor profile; chop them finely before adding.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare your kitchen because we’re about to create a masterpiece of summer flavors!

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

Crisp the Bacon: While pasta cooks, place bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Fry until crispy and golden brown—about 6-8 minutes—then drain on paper towels.

Chop the Veggies: Dice cherry tomatoes and chop romaine lettuce while waiting for the pasta to cool down. Keep them fresh and colorful!

Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, salt, pepper, and optional herbs until smooth. This creamy dressing will be magic.

Combine Everything: Once pasta has cooled slightly (no one likes hot salad), toss it gently with bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, and dressing until evenly coated.

Chill & Serve!: Allow your creation to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This enhances all those delicious flavors!

Now grab your favorite outdoor chair and enjoy every bite of this delightful Summer BLT Pasta Salad! spicy jalapeno potato salad.

You Must Know

This refreshing Summer BLT Pasta Salad brings together the classic flavors of a BLT in a delightful pasta dish
Combining crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and crisp lettuce creates a vibrant medley that’s perfect for summer gatherings
Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness that makes everyone smile

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then cool it under cold water while frying bacon until crispy. This sequence ensures flavors meld perfectly, and everything stays fresh.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap regular pasta for gluten-free options or add avocado for creaminess. Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite twist on this classic dish. For more inspiration, check out this Avocado Feta Toast recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Summer BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. green goddess chickpea salad wraps For best results, enjoy cold—no reheating needed!

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the perfect Summer BLT Pasta Salad, make sure your bacon is crispy but not burnt
Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor and texture
If possible, prepare it a few hours ahead so the flavors meld beautifully before serving

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a sun-soaked picnic where my friends devoured every last bite, leaving only crumbs and happy memories behind.

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for Summer BLT Pasta Salad?

caprese stuffed zucchini boats.

Any short pasta like fusilli or penne pairs wonderfully with the ingredients in this salad.

Can I make Summer BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time?

For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry and Spinach Salad recipe.

Absolutely! Prepare it a few hours in advance for enhanced flavor blending before serving.

How do I keep my salad fresh longer?

Store it in an airtight container and keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.