Description
Elevate your salad game with our delectable BLT Macaroni Salad recipe, combining the beloved flavors of a classic BLT sandwich with the creamy goodness of macaroni salad. Bursting with crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tender pasta, all tossed in a tangy Dijon mustard dressing, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or barbecue. Let’s dive into the steps to create this irresistible salad sensation!
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped lettuce
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the creamy dressing.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked and cooled macaroni, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped lettuce, sliced green onions, and chopped fresh parsley to the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss Until Coated: Gently toss all the ingredients together until well coated with the creamy dressing, ensuring an even distribution of flavors throughout the salad.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the BLT macaroni salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, serve the BLT macaroni salad and delight in the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes (+ chilling time) | Servings: 6 | Calories: 320 per serving
Notes
- Ideal Side Dish: Serve BLT Macaroni Salad alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone dish for a light lunch or dinner option.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the salad just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Chill Before Serving: For optimal flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Pack for Picnics: Pack individual servings of BLT Macaroni Salad in portable containers for picnics, potlucks, or outdoor gatherings.
- Prevent Soggy Lettuce: If making ahead, keep the chopped lettuce separate and toss it into the salad just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Refresh Before Serving: If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and toss to refresh the flavors.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Accompany the salad with slices of crusty bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal.
- Keep Refrigerated: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Stir Before Serving: Before serving leftover salad, give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing and toppings evenly.
- Revive with Dressing: If the salad appears dry upon reheating, add a little extra dressing or a drizzle of olive oil to moisten it up.
- Enhance with Avocado: For a creamy twist, add diced avocado to the salad just before serving for extra richness and texture.
- Swap Bacon for Chicken: Substitute crispy bacon with grilled or roasted chicken strips for a protein-packed alternative.
- Add Crunch with Nuts: Incorporate toasted pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve in Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option, serve the BLT Macaroni Salad in lettuce cups or on a bed of mixed greens.
