π₯π BLT Pasta Salad (Creamy, Crunchy & Irresistibly Fresh)
β± Prep Time: 15 minutes
π₯ Cook Time: 10 minutes
βοΈ Chill Time: 20β30 minutes (optional)
π½ Servings: 6
π Ingredients
π Salad Base
β’ 12 oz rotini or macaroni pasta
β’ 8 slices bacon, cooked crispy & crumbled
β’ 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
β’ 1Β½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
β’ ΒΌ cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
π₯£ Creamy Dressing
β’ ΒΎ cup mayonnaise
β’ ΒΌ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
β’ 1 tbsp ranch seasoning
β’ 1 tbsp lemon juice
β’ Β½ tsp garlic powder
β’ Salt & black pepper to taste
πΏ Optional Add-Ins
β’ Diced avocado
β’ Shredded cheddar cheese
β’ Chopped green onions
β’ Croutons for extra crunch
π©βπ³ Instructions
1οΈβ£ Cook Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2οΈβ£ Prepare Bacon
Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.
3οΈβ£ Make Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4οΈβ£ Assemble Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, bacon, tomatoes, and onion.
Pour dressing over and toss until evenly coated.
5οΈβ£ Add Lettuce
Fold in chopped romaine just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.
6οΈβ£ Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for 20β30 minutes if desired, then serve cold.
π‘ Tips
β’ Add lettuce at the end to prevent sogginess
β’ Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch
β’ Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and summer lunches
β’ Creamy, smoky, juicy, and packed with texture π₯β¨