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This BLT Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich – crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes and fresh spinach – tossed with pasta (macaroni, cavatappi, penne) and a creamy dressing. It’s a refreshing side dish perfect for summer picnics or even as a light diner!
Best BLT Pasta Salad – The Perfect Summer Side Dish!
I’ve always loved a classic BLT sandwich (or my famous BLT Wraps!) – the crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes and lettuce all tucked between slices of bread — not to mention it’s such an easy, effortless summer dinner! I also love pasta salads!
During the summer months, I find myself making a different pasta salad nearly every week. I decided to combine my love for BLT sandwiches with my love for pasta salads and that’s how this BLT Pasta Salad came to be.
Why you’ll love BLT Pasta Salad:
- creamy – with a variety of textures (crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes!)
- easy to make
- perfect for summer BBQs, family picnics, or even a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
All the flavors of BLT in one creamy pasta salad – let’s go make it!
❤️ Ashley
ingredients for BLT pasta salad
Here’s a list of the ingredients that you’ll need. Ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.
- Pasta – I use elbow but use whatever you have on hand – rotini, penne, cavatapi, etc.
- Bacon – thick cut is my favorite choice! I like to bake my bacon, here’s how.
- Greens – baby spinach is my preference. You can also mix in arugula or baby kale
- Tomatoes – fresh grape or cherry tomatoes are ideal.
- Add-ins: make it your own with diced avocado, a sprinkle of cheese, or toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
Pro Tip
Allow the BLT Pasta Salad to chill for at least an hour before serving so that all of the flavors can meld together.
how to make BLT pasta salad
This easy summer side dish comes together quickly. Here’s how to make it.
- Cook the pasta – then allow it to cool completely.
- Make the dressing – you need mayo, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt and black pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Combine the ingredients – toss together pasta, bacon, tomatoes, spinach then combine with the dressing until evenly coated.
- Chill and serve – I recommend chilling this pasta salad for at least an hour before serving as the perfect summer side dish or a light. summer dinner.
Light, fresh, and full of flavor, this BLT Pasta Salad will quickly become one of your go-to summer pasta salads. In case you’re looking for a couple of other pasta salads to try, go checkout my Creamy Cheddar Pasta Salad, Easy Ranch Pasta Salad, my BBQ Macaroni Salad or Easy Macaroni Salad.Enjoy!
BLT Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice
- 8 ounces grape tomatoes halved
- 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta) and cook according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. Drain again and set aside.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the salad: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Stir in 8 ounces of halved grape tomatoes, 8 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon, and 2 cups of chopped fresh baby spinach. Mix everything gently until evenly coated.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
