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BLT Pasta Salad

BLT Pasta Salad

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 430
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz bowtie pasta
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 1/2 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 green onions sliced
  • 1/4 red onion finely diced
  • For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until completely cooled to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
  3. While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cooled.
  4. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  5. Add the crumbled bacon, chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green onions, and red onion to the bowl with the pasta.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  7. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  8. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 20–30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
  9. Toss lightly again before serving and top with extra bacon pieces and green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Cook pasta just until al dente so it stays firm after chilling.
  • Rinse pasta under cold water to cool it quickly and stop overcooking.
  • Add lettuce shortly before serving if you prefer extra crunch.
  • Use crispy bacon for the best texture and flavor.
  • Chill the salad before serving so the flavors blend together.
  • Use fresh tomatoes for the juiciest flavor.
  • Add extra dressing if the pasta absorbs too much while refrigerated.