Description

Indulge in a delightful marriage of flavors with BLT Pasta Salad! This inventive dish combines the beloved elements of a classic BLT sandwich with the comforting appeal of pasta, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful creation that’s perfect for any gathering, from picnics to potlucks.

Ingredients

1 pound short-cut pasta, cooked and cooled
1 (16 oz) package bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
10 ounces grape tomatoes, chopped

Dressing:

¾ cup mayonnaise
½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare Dressing:

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, chives, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined to create the creamy dressing.

2. Mix Salad:

In a large bowl, toss together the cooked and cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, chopped romaine lettuce, and grape tomatoes. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Add Dressing:

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss until the dressing coats the pasta, bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes, creating a creamy and flavorful mixture.

4. Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the BLT Pasta Salad until ready to serve. This salad is best enjoyed cold, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time for picnics, gatherings, or quick meals.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 15 min
Total Time: 15 min
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Servings: 6

Notes

Serving Suggestions:

Chill Before Serving: BLT Pasta Salad is best served cold, so be sure to refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to chill.
Garnish with Freshness: Just before serving, garnish the pasta salad with additional chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This adds a visual appeal and enhances the overall presentation of the dish.
Serve with a Side: Accompany BLT Pasta Salad with a side of crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a light soup for a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures will tantalize your taste buds.
Individual Portions: Consider serving BLT Pasta Salad in individual bowls or cups for a stylish presentation at gatherings or parties. This allows guests to easily grab a serving and eliminates the need for utensils.

Storage Recommendations:

Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: Store any leftover BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It’s important to refrigerate it within two hours of serving to prevent bacterial growth.
Consume Within a Few Days: BLT Pasta Salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of preparation. While it will still be safe to eat beyond this timeframe, the quality may begin to deteriorate, and the lettuce can become wilted.
Refresh Before Serving: If the pasta salad appears dry or the flavors have mellowed, refresh it before serving by adding a drizzle of extra dressing or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
Avoid Freezing: Due to the creamy dressing and delicate lettuce, BLT Pasta Salad is not suitable for freezing. Freezing can cause the lettuce to become limp and the texture of the pasta to change, resulting in a less appetizing dish.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your BLT Pasta Salad remains fresh, flavorful, and enjoyable for as long as possible. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.