Are you ready to dive into a delightful bowl of freshness and flavor? This BLT Pasta Salad with Ranch Dressing is the perfect dish for any occasion—be it a sunny picnic, a weeknight dinner, or a potluck gathering.
Packed with crispy bacon, vibrant cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and crunchy lettuce, this salad is fun, filling, and so easy to whip up! Let’s get started on this dreamy, creamy pasta salad that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
What makes this BLT Pasta Salad so special? It’s the combination of classic flavors in a light and refreshing salad that’s bound to impress your family and friends.
Combine tender pasta with crisp romaine, juicy tomatoes, rich avocado, and of course, crispy bacon, all brought together with zesty ranch dressing.
This dish is not only delicious, but it also looks beautiful on the table, making it a great option for any gathering.
Plus, it’s super simple to make, and you can customize it to your liking!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225 g) dried pasta any small shape
- 1 romaine heart chopped – or 6 cups chopped lettuce
- 8 ounces (225 g) cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 avocado peeled and diced
- ½ cup (225 g) crispy turkey bacon chopped, about a half pound of turkey bacon
- ½ cup (26 g) green onions sliced
- 1 cup (240 ml) ranch dressing homemade or store-bought
How To Make BLT Pasta Salad With Ranch Dressing
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the dried pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
This will keep the pasta from getting mushy.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While your pasta is cooking, it’s time to chop and prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Chop the romaine heart or lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the avocado.
Don’t forget to chop your crispy turkey bacon into small pieces as well.
This way, every bite of your pasta salad is packed with flavor!
Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and crispy turkey bacon.
Toss them gently together to mix.
Step 4: Add the Ranch Dressing
Now, it’s time for the star of the show—the ranch dressing! Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta salad mixture.
Using a large spoon, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the creamy dressing.
Step 5: Add Green Onions
Finally, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top of the salad and give it one last gentle toss.
This adds a nice crunch and a hint of onion flavor that balances everything beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Your BLT Pasta Salad is now ready to be served! You can enjoy it immediately, or cover it and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together even more.
Serve it chilled or at room temperature—either way, it’s delicious!
Expert Tips
- For added flavor, consider toasting the turkey bacon bits in a skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
- Don’t overcook your pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- If you are making this salad ahead of time, wait to add the avocado until just before serving to prevent it from browning.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of ranch dressing depending on your taste. You can also make your own homemade ranch for a fresher flavor.
Variations and Customizations
- To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and consider adding chickpeas for protein.
- Swap out the avocado for diced cucumber if you prefer a lighter crunch.
- Add some cheese—crumbled feta or shredded cheddar can add a delicious twist.
- Include other veggies like bell peppers, corn, or shredded carrots for more color and nutrients.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover BLT Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you notice the pasta is absorbing too much of the dressing, feel free to add a splash more dressing to refresh it.
Please remember to keep any leftover avocado from turning brown—tip: sprinkle some lemon juice on it to help.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make this salad a few hours in advance.
Just keep in mind to add the avocado and green onions closer to serving time for optimal freshness.
What pasta shapes work best for this salad?
Any small pasta shape will work wonderfully—think rotini, penne, or farfalle.
These shapes hold onto the dressing and flavors nicely!
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes! While ranch is delicious, you can substitute it with your favorite dressing—Italian, Caesar, or even a vinaigrette work well with this salad.
Is this pasta salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for lunch throughout the week.
Just be sure to store the dressing separately if you plan to keep it for more than a day or two to prevent sogginess.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy and delicious BLT Pasta Salad with Ranch Dressing that’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation.
With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and satisfying textures, this salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
Whether you’re serving it at a celebration, a family dinner, or enjoying it solo, each bite will remind you of the quintessential flavors of a classic BLT sandwich, all bundled up in a light and creamy pasta salad.
So grab your ingredients and get cooking! Enjoy!
