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A top-down view of a fresh pasta salad in a white ceramic bowl. The salad consists of spiral-shaped yellow fusilli pasta mixed with fresh green spinach leaves and halved red cherry tomatoes. Crispy bacon pieces are scattered throughout the dish. The salad is garnished with fresh basil leaves. The bowl is placed on a light gray marble surface. In the background, there are whole red tomatoes and additional fresh spinach leaves. The lighting is bright and natural, creating subtle shadows beneath the bowl. The composition is shot with a shallow depth of field, focusing on the vibrant colors and textures of the salad ingredients.

BLT Pasta Salad

BLT pasta salad brings together crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and tender pasta in a creamy, tangy dressing. A hearty, colorful, and refreshing side or main dish that's easy to prepare ahead.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces short pasta such as rotini, bowtie, or shells
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon cooked and chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 3 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large Pot For boiling pasta
  • Frying Pan For cooking bacon
  • Large Mixing Bowl For assembling the salad

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While pasta cooks, fry bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into pieces.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped bacon, and cherry tomatoes. Toss with half the dressing.
  5. Just before serving, stir in chopped romaine lettuce and drizzle with remaining dressing. Toss gently to combine.

Notes

  • Add avocado chunks for extra creaminess.
  • Use baby spinach instead of romaine if you prefer milder greens.
  • Best eaten fresh after assembling to keep lettuce crisp.

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