BLT Pasta Salad – Easy, Flavorful, and Picnic-Ready

BLT Pasta Salad is here to shake up your summer sides in the most delicious way. We’re talking crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, cool lettuce, and perfectly cooked rotini—all brought together with a creamy, tangy dressing that makes every bite feel like a backyard picnic in your mouth. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers, juggling Zoom calls, or just too hot to cook something fussy, this BLT Pasta Salad fits right into your day.

It’s picnic-perfect, potluck-approved, and picky-eater friendly (because, let’s face it, bacon makes everything better). You can prep it ahead, chill it while you’re getting the kids out the door, and boom—dinner’s basically done. Oh, and it’s not just for summer! This salad holds its own all year round, especially when you’re craving something fresh, hearty, and a little nostalgic.

Table of Contents

What is BLT Pasta Salad?

BLT Pasta Salad is what happens when the classic BLT sandwich says, “Hey, let’s make this a party.” It takes all those familiar flavors—crispy bacon, sweet tomatoes, crunchy lettuce—and gives them a creamy twist with mayo and Dijon tossed into spiraled pasta. It’s kind of like your favorite sandwich decided to hang out with a pasta salad and they fell madly in love. This isn’t just some random fusion; it works because the textures and flavors complement each other beautifully.

The smokiness of the bacon pairs with the tangy dressing, while the rotini gives it some chew to keep you coming back for more. And that lettuce? It adds a fresh crunch that you won’t get from any old noodle dish. The salad is chilled, creamy, and incredibly satisfying—no soggy sandwiches here. Whether you’re serving this for lunch, dinner, or a cookout side, BLT Pasta Salad brings comfort and flavor in every forkful.

Reasons to Try BLT Pasta Salad

You know those days when the fridge is a puzzle of random ingredients and you just want something easy, filling, and not boring? That’s where BLT Pasta Salad comes in. First off, it’s fast—ready in under 30 minutes. That means you can pull this off between errands or while the kids are arguing over what to watch. Second, it’s incredibly customizable. Not into mayo? Swap in Greek yogurt. No Dijon? Ranch works too. Want it heartier? Toss in grilled chicken or avocado.

Third, it’s a real crowd-pleaser. You’ve got bacon lovers, pasta fans, and salad seekers all covered in one bowl. It’s ideal for potlucks, BBQs, weekday lunches, or even as a sneaky way to get the family to eat more veggies. It stores well too, making leftovers something to look forward to instead of a sad, soggy disappointment. Plus, you don’t need any fancy ingredients—just the usual suspects and a mixing bowl. Simple, satisfying, and seriously tasty.

Ingredients Needed to Make BLT Pasta Salad

• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions

Instructions to Make BLT Pasta Salad (Step by Step)

Step 1: Cook the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your rotini and cook until al dente—this usually takes about 8–10 minutes, but check your box just to be sure. Drain the pasta, then give it a quick rinse under cold water. This cools it down fast and stops the cooking, which helps keep it from getting mushy later.

Step 2: Crisp Up That Bacon

While the pasta’s cooking, lay your bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat. Let them sizzle until they’re golden and crispy—no floppy bacon allowed! Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then crumble into bite-sized bits. If you’re meal-prepping, go ahead and make a double batch. Bacon never lasts long.

Step 3: Prep the Veggies

Halve your cherry tomatoes and chop the romaine into bite-sized pieces. The tomatoes bring juiciness, the lettuce adds crunch, and together they lighten up the dish just enough to keep it from feeling too heavy.

Step 4: Whisk Up the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the mayo, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until it’s creamy and smooth. The mustard gives the dressing a little zing without being overpowering, while the mayo brings that classic BLT creaminess. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 5: Mix It All Together

In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled bacon. Pour the dressing over everything and gently toss it all together. You want everything lightly coated but not drowning. Add the chives or green onions for a mild oniony bite that ties it all together.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld and the pasta absorb all that creamy goodness. When you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir and maybe a little sprinkle of extra bacon on top—because why not?

Want more pasta salad inspiration? Check out our Tortellini Pasta Salad or the zesty Ranch Pasta Salad for other easy, crowd-favorite options.

What to Serve with BLT Pasta Salad

BLT Pasta Salad plays well with just about everything. If you’re firing up the grill, serve it alongside some juicy burgers or BBQ chicken. It also pairs beautifully with lighter mains like our Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa for a surf-and-salad kind of vibe. Hosting brunch? Add it next to deviled eggs, fruit salad, or a crusty loaf of sourdough. For a lighter dinner, it makes a great partner to a grilled corn cob and a slice of Blueberry Lemon Heaven Dessert. It’s also a solid option on its own with a tall glass of iced tea and your favorite reality TV show queued up. No judgment.

Key Tips for Making BLT Pasta Salad

Let the pasta cool before tossing it with lettuce—nobody wants wilted greens. Always salt your pasta water so the noodles actually taste like something. Use thick-cut bacon for more crunch and less grease. If you’re meal-prepping, keep the lettuce separate and mix it in just before serving to keep things crisp. You can swap mayo for sour cream or Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a lighter twist. And if you’ve got little ones who turn up their noses at lettuce, try chopped spinach instead. For extra zing, a splash of vinegar or lemon juice in the dressing brightens everything up. And here’s a secret: a dash of hot sauce? Total game changer.

Storage and Reheating Tips for BLT Pasta Salad

BLT Pasta Salad is best eaten fresh but still holds up like a champ in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’re making it ahead of time, wait to add the lettuce until you’re ready to serve—nobody’s got time for soggy salad. If the dressing thickens in the fridge, just stir in a teaspoon of milk or water to loosen things up. This is a cold dish, so skip the microwave. If you want to give it new life, try tossing in chopped avocado or a handful of shredded cheese on day two. It’s also great stuffed into a wrap or alongside grilled protein. Think of it as a salad that just keeps on giving.

FAQs

Can I make BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. Just leave out the lettuce and mix it in right before serving for that fresh crunch.

Is there a lighter version of the dressing?
Yes! Swap mayo with plain Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and light mayo.

Can I use a different pasta?
Totally. Bowtie, penne, or even shells work great—just aim for something that holds onto dressing well.

What if I don’t eat pork?
Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon alternatives. Or skip it entirely and add some chopped avocado for richness.

How long does it last in the fridge?
About 3 days. For best texture, store the lettuce separately.

Final Thoughts

BLT Pasta Salad is the recipe you never knew you needed but won’t be able to stop making. It’s simple, quick, and delivers big-time flavor with just a few pantry staples. Whether you’re headed to a picnic, making lunch for the week, or just trying to keep dinner drama to a minimum, this dish checks all the boxes. Crispy, creamy, crunchy—it’s got the holy trinity of textures, and you don’t need to be a kitchen pro to nail it. Want more salad inspo? You’ll love our Easy Chickpea Cucumber Salad or Rainbow Orzo Salad for even more feel-good meal ideas. Go ahead, give it a try—you might just find your new go-to.

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