How To Make BLT Pasta Salad

• Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The lemon juice adds a bright tang that perfectly balances the creamy mayo, while the garlic powder enhances the flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crisp. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. When cool, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Turkey bacon provides a smoky flavor while keeping the salad lighter.
• In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine lettuce, and crumbled turkey bacon. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well coated. Be sure to mix carefully to keep the lettuce crisp and the tomatoes intact.
• For the best flavor, cover the BLT Pasta Salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the dressing to meld with the pasta and ingredients, creating a harmonious taste. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light main meal.