If there’s one side dish that disappears fast at every summer gathering, it’s this BLT Pasta Salad. It has everything you love about a classic BLT—crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and plenty of flavor—tossed with pasta and a creamy zesty dressing that brings it all together. It’s easy to make ahead, perfect for cookouts and pool days, and hearty enough to enjoy as a light summer meal. Serve it alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or sandwiches for a crowd-pleasing favorite everyone will ask for again.
BLT Pasta Salad
- 1 pound rotini or gemelli pasta
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1–2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup freshly grated or shaved parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
Dressing
- 3/4 cup zesty Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse lightly with cold water.
- Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl while still slightly warm. Pour about half of the dressing over the pasta and toss well so the pasta absorbs the flavor as it cools.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, ranch, mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the bacon, tomatoes, red onion, parmesan, and basil to the pasta bowl. Pour over the remaining dressing and toss until evenly coated.
- Right before serving, gently fold in the chopped romaine lettuce and finish with extra black pepper and additional parmesan if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.
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Teresa's Tips:
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Add the romaine just before serving so it stays crisp.
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Save a little bacon for the top for extra texture and presentation.
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Diced avocado is delicious added right before serving.
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This pairs well with grilled chicken, burgers, sandwiches, watermelon, or corn on the cob.
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Hi I’m Teresa!
I’m a mom to three, a wife and a physician assistant. I also have a degree in Nutritional Sciences and I love sharing all things life with you! I am passionate about empowering you through education, sharing all my fave products and items that have made life better and creating content to give you value!
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