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Here's the star of my summer gatherings – BLT Pasta Salad! All the best parts of a BLT, like crunchy bacon, fresh greens, and ripe tomatoes, are tossed with pasta and a super creamy ranch. Every time I make this for a crowd, folks can’t stop asking how I did it.
Why You'll Be Hooked
This dish just clicks. That combo of BLT flavors with creamy pasta hits just right, and it’s beyond simple to toss together. Want to switch things up? Add your favorite extras and make it yours.
Grab These Things
- Mayo: Go for the full-flavor version for the dreamiest texture.
- Sour Cream: Brings a tangy kick that balances everything.
- Ranch Mix: I use the packet kind – makes things easy.
- Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens every bite.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Little bursts of juicy flavor.
- Avocado: Adds some rich, buttery goodness.
- Romaine: Keeps it extra crisp.
- Cheddar: Cubed or shredded – both work for meltiness.
- Red Onion: Gives just enough bite.
- Bacon: Crispy and salty – cook it fresh.
- Rotini: Spiral pasta grabs onto all that creamy stuff.
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Let’s Whip It Up
- Share The Love
- Dive in while it’s still super fresh – you’ll want seconds.
- Bring It All Together
- Everything gets tossed in your largest bowl, then spoon over that creamy ranch goodness.
- Cook Your Pasta
- Make sure it’s got a little bite left, then chill it to stop it cooking and keep it just right.
- Start With The Dressing
- Mix up that ranch, mayo, and sour cream and pop it in the fridge – the flavor gets even better if it sits a bit.
Best Pairings
Pile it next to a juicy burger or serve it with grilled chicken at your cookout. Sometimes I toss in some grilled meat to make it the main event. We bring it along for every picnic, pool hangout, or barbecue because it fits any vibe.
Make It The Way You Like
Want it without dairy? Swap for vegan mayo and ditch the cheese. Skipping carbs? Use extra lettuce and leave out some pasta. Toss in cucumbers or crunchy croutons – it’s all good
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Stay Crisp and Yummy
Tastes best if you eat it the same day – but it’ll hold up in the fridge for a day. If you have to prep ahead, stash the lettuce and tomatoes on the side and mix right before serving.
Change Things Up
I like to switch out the dressing for an Italian vinaigrette on some days, or toss in chickpeas and chicken for a more filling dish. Try sunflower seeds or tortilla strips for extra crunch.
Twisty Pasta Tips
Love those rotini curls since they soak up all the creamy toppings. Gluten-free pasta pairs just as well – just cook it until it’s still a bit firm and rinse with cold water so nothing gets mushy.
A Crowd Pleaser
This is a go-to for a reason – simple ideas, fresh stuff, and so much flavor. Once you try it, you’ll get why everyone keeps passing it on!
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this early?
- Get ingredients ready ahead, but toss the lettuce and dressing in last so it stays fresh.
- → How long does it stay fresh?
- Eat leftovers within a day. Store in the fridge, but keep in mind lettuce softens when stored.
- → Any pasta substitutions?
- Pick any short pasta, like penne, spirals, or bowties. Pasta with ridges holds dressing well.
- → Why rinse pasta under cold water?
- Keeps it from overcooking and stops it from clumping. Always rinse pasta for chilled salads.
- → Can I use store-bought ranch?
- Sure, but fresh is better. Swap with 2 cups pre-made ranch if you'd like.