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–+ servings
BLT Pasta Salad

Creamy BLT Pasta Salad Perfect for Summer Picnics

A refreshing and flavorful BLT Pasta Salad perfect for summer picnics and BBQs.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 16 ounces DeLallo Shellbows Any small pasta shape works well.
For the Salad
  • 6 strips Bacon Turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative.
  • 4 cups Chopped Lettuce Romaine or iceberg recommended.
  • 10 ounces Little Tomatoes Halved; substitute cherry or grape variety.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheddar can provide a sharper flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Red Onion Green onions are a milder alternative.
  • Salt & Pepper Essential for enhancing flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1 tablespoon Bacon Fat Omit for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Mayo Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons DeLallo Simply Pesto Homemade pesto works beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon White Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a great replacement.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Omit if desired.
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic Adjust to suit taste preferences.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • large salad bowl
  • small bowl

Method
 

Main Steps
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix the reserved bacon fat, mayo, DeLallo Simply Pesto, white vinegar, sugar, and minced garlic until creamy.
  4. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled shellbows pasta, chopped lettuce, halved tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, red onion, and crumbled bacon.
  5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad and gently toss until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Top with extra crispy bacon for added crunch.

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