With summer’s warm embrace in full swing, it’s time to shake off the fast-food routine and dive into something fresh and flavorful. Picture this: the sun shining, laughter echoing in the backyard, and the tantalizing scent of crispy bacon mingling with ripe tomatoes wafting through the air. That’s the magic of my Creamy BLT Pasta Salad with Pesto Dressing. It’s a vibrant twist on the classic BLT sandwich, transforming hearty pasta, crunchy lettuce, and juicy tomatoes into a dish every bit as comforting as it is satisfying.
This delightful salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, or simply a light dinner when you want something quick yet impressive. The creamy pesto dressing brings it all together, making each bite a burst of deliciousness that will leave your taste buds dancing. If you’re ready to elevate your summer meals and escape the mundane, let’s dive into this recipe that promises to be a hit for everyone at the table!
Why is BLT Pasta Salad a Must-Try?
Summertime Delight: This BLT Pasta Salad is the epitome of summer meals, bursting with vibrant flavors that brighten any table.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll whip this up in no time!
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, it appeals to both pasta lovers and BLT fans alike.
Customizable: Mix it up with ingredients like diced avocados or corn for a unique twist.
Creamy Goodness: The rich pesto dressing envelops every bite, ensuring an explosion of taste.
Make Ahead: Ideal for meal prep, just add lettuce before serving to maintain that crisp freshness!
This refreshing dish is your go-to for any season, especially for summer BBQs or picnics!
BLT Pasta Salad Ingredients
For the Pasta Base
• DeLallo Shellbows (16 ounces) – Provide structure and texture; any small pasta shape works well!
For the Salad
• Bacon (6 strips) – Adds savory, salty goodness; turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative.
• Chopped Lettuce (4 cups, romaine or iceberg) – Brings a fresh crunch; try spinach for a change!
• Little Tomatoes (10 ounces, halved) – Offers sweetness and juiciness; substitute any cherry or grape variety.
• Shredded Mozzarella (1 cup) – Adds creaminess; cheddar can give a sharper flavor profile.
• Chopped Red Onion (1/4 cup) – Delivers a tangy bite; green onions are milder.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing overall flavor.
For the Dressing
• Bacon Fat (1 tablespoon) – This adds richness; omit for a lighter option.
• Mayo (1 cup) – Forms the creamy base of the dressing; Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute.
• DeLallo Simply Pesto (2 tablespoons) – Infuses fresh basil flavor; homemade pesto works beautifully too.
• White Vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Adds needed acidity; apple cider vinegar is a great replacement.
• Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Balances acidity nicely; feel free to omit if desired.
• Minced Garlic (1 clove) – Enhances dressing flavor; adjust to suit your taste preferences.
Dive into making this delightful BLT Pasta Salad and enjoy every mouthful of its creamy, savory charm!
How to Make BLT Pasta Salad
-
Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook the DeLallo shellbows pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool for a few minutes.
-
Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon strips until they are crispy and golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set it aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of the delicious bacon fat for the dressing.
-
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix the reserved bacon fat, mayo, DeLallo Simply Pesto, white vinegar, sugar, and minced garlic. Stir until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
-
Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, throw together the cooled shellbows pasta, chopped lettuce, halved tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, red onion, and crumbled bacon.
-
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until well coated, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve and Enjoy: This beautiful salad is best served immediately, but you can also let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Optional: Top with some extra crispy bacon for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with BLT Pasta Salad?
Imagine a sunny afternoon filled with laughter and delicious food as you enjoy this creamy, vibrant dish.
-
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Juicy, sweet corn adds a delightful crunch that balances the creamy BLT pasta salad perfectly.
-
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes bring a burst of freshness. Their lightness complements the rich salad beautifully and adds a touch of color!
-
Lemonade: A cold glass of tangy lemonade refreshes and enlivens the palate after every savory bite, creating a harmonious dining experience.
-
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread offers a comforting bite to soak up the creamy dressing and adds warmth to your summery table.
-
Watermelon Salad: A cool salad of watermelon and feta with mint introduces a sweet and salty surprise, refreshing your tastebuds between rich bites.
-
Iced Tea: A glass of sweetened or unsweetened iced tea is the ultimate cooling beverage, making it a fantastic drink choice for outdoor gatherings.
Elevate your summer meals and make your gatherings truly memorable with these delightful pairings!
Expert Tips for BLT Pasta Salad
-
Cool the Pasta: Let your shellbows pasta cool completely after draining. This prevents wilting of the salad ingredients and keeps your BLT Pasta Salad vibrant.
-
Lettuce Last: If you’re planning to make this salad ahead, add the chopped lettuce just before serving. This maintains its crispness and keeps the salad looking fresh.
-
Taste as You Go: After mixing in the dressing, take a moment to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. This extra step makes a significant difference in elevating the overall flavor of your BLT Pasta Salad.
-
Ingredient Freshness: For the best taste, choose the ripest tomatoes and freshest greens. Fresh ingredients are key to a delicious summer salad.
-
Flavors Unite: Allow the salad to chill for about 30 minutes before serving. This enables all the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your BLT Pasta Salad experience.
Make Ahead Options
These BLT Pasta Salad preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the shellbows pasta, fry the bacon, and prepare the creamy pesto dressing up to 24 hours in advance, storing each component separately. Simply refrigerate the pasta and bacon in airtight containers to maintain freshness, and keep the dressing sealed to prevent it from thickening. When you’re ready to serve, mix the cooled pasta with chopped lettuce, halved tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, red onion, and bacon. Drizzle with the dressing just before serving for that perfect crunch and flavor that feels just as delicious as if it were made fresh!
Storage Tips for BLT Pasta Salad
-
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ensures your BLT Pasta Salad remains enjoyable.
-
Lettuce Addition: If you’re preparing in advance, hold off on adding the chopped lettuce until right before serving. This preserves its crispness, ensuring every bite is crunchy.
-
Reheating: While this salad is best enjoyed cold, if you prefer it slightly warmed, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
-
Freezer: Avoid freezing the salad, as the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables can change texture and flavor after thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience!
BLT Pasta Salad Variations
Feel free to make this vibrant dish truly your own with some delightful twists!
- Dairy-Free: Swap mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative for a creamy sensation without the dairy.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked diced chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein kick, making it heartier.
- Avocado Delight: Incorporate diced avocados for a creamy texture and rich flavor that enhances the salad beautifully.
- Zesty Kick: Toss in some chopped jalapeños to add a spicy kick that balances the creaminess wonderfully.
- Seasonal Veggies: Mix in some blanched broccoli or bell peppers for added crunch and vibrant color during summer picnics.
- Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top to introduce a delightful crunch and nutty depth.
- Ultimate Freshness: Use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to elevate the flavors and add a burst of summer freshness to every bite.
- Hearty Grains: Replace some or all of the pasta with quinoa or farro for a wholesome, nutty grain that complements the salad beautifully.
Create your perfect BLT Pasta Salad by exploring these variations and personalizing it to your taste!
BLT Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for BLT Pasta Salad?
For this BLT Pasta Salad, I highly recommend using DeLallo Shellbows, which offer a delightful shape that holds the creamy dressing well. However, any small pasta shape will work, such as elbow macaroni or fusilli. Just ensure you cook it al dente for the best texture!
How should I store leftover BLT Pasta Salad?
Store your BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the chopped lettuce separate if possible, adding it just before serving to maintain its crispness and freshness.
Can I freeze BLT Pasta Salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad because the creamy mayo dressing and fresh vegetables don’t thaw well, resulting in a change of texture. Instead, make it fresh and enjoy it within a few days for the best flavor and quality!
What can I do if my bacon isn’t crispy enough?
If your bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like, don’t worry! You can return it to the skillet to cook for a few more minutes over medium heat until it reaches your desired crispiness. Alternatively, bake it in the oven on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes for consistent crispiness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If anyone at your gathering has dietary restrictions, consider using turkey bacon as a lighter, lower-fat option. For a vegetarian version, you can swap bacon for smoked tempeh or crispy chickpeas. Additionally, if someone is lactose intolerant, you can substitute regular mayo with a dairy-free mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for added health benefits.
Can I make BLT Pasta Salad in advance?
Definitely! To prepare ahead of time, follow the recipe instructions and mix all ingredients, except the lettuce, and store it in the fridge. Just before serving, toss in the fresh lettuce to ensure it stays crunchy and vibrant. Enjoy your meal prep with this flavorful salad!
Creamy BLT Pasta Salad Perfect for Summer Picnics
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook the DeLallo shellbows pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon strips until crispy and golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove and reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat for dressing.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix the reserved bacon fat, mayo, DeLallo Simply Pesto, white vinegar, sugar, and minced garlic until creamy.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled shellbows pasta, chopped lettuce, halved tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, red onion, and crumbled bacon.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad and gently toss until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.