There’s nothing quite like the classic BLT flavor combo, is there? I still remember the first time I tried this Easy BLT Pasta Salad – it was at a neighborhood potluck a few summers ago, and let me tell you, it was an instant hit! The combination of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and that tangy dressing tossed with perfectly cooked pasta was simply irresistible. Ever since then, this recipe has been a go-to for me, whether I’m hosting a backyard BBQ or just craving a refreshing summer meal. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you try this Easy BLT Pasta Salad, I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation too.

Why This Easy BLT Pasta Salad Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Easy BLT Pasta Salad

The secret to this Easy BLT Pasta Salad is in the balance of flavors and textures. By tossing tender penne pasta with crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy romaine lettuce, you get a dish that’s a true flavor explosion in every bite. The creamy mayo-based dressing, brightened up with tangy white wine vinegar and savory garlic powder, brings it all together in perfect harmony. And the fresh chives? They add a lovely pop of color and fresh herbal notes that really make this salad sing.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

The key to this Easy BLT Pasta Salad is using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Start with 1 pound of penne pasta – the shape and size of the pasta helps it hold onto the dressing and other components beautifully. 8 ounces of crispy, crumbled bacon adds that irresistible smoky, salty bacon flavor we all know and love. 1 pint of fresh, juicy cherry tomatoes, halved, provide pops of sweetness and acidity. 2 cups of shredded romaine lettuce lend a refreshing crunch.

For the dressing, you’ll need 1 cup of creamy mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of tangy white wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of savory garlic powder, plus 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper to balance the flavors. Finally, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives add a beautiful finishing touch with their vibrant color and delicate onion-y notes.

Step-by-Step Easy BLT Pasta Salad Instructions

Preparing Your Easy BLT Pasta Salad

This Easy BLT Pasta Salad comes together in just 30 minutes total, with 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking. All you’ll need is a large pot, a mixing bowl, and a few basic kitchen tools.

1- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 1 pound of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking.

2- While the pasta is cooking, cook the 8 ounces of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the bacon on paper towels, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

3- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained penne pasta, the crumbled bacon, 1 pint of halved cherry tomatoes, and 2 cups of shredded romaine lettuce.

4- For the dressing, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until smooth and creamy.

5- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

6- Finally, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives over the top and give the salad one more gentle toss. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success

To make your Easy BLT Pasta Salad truly exceptional, here are a few pro tips:

  1. Cook the pasta just until al dente – you don’t want it to get mushy in the salad.
  2. Use high-quality, thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and texture.
  3. Halve the cherry tomatoes to release their juices and create a saucier consistency.
  4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed – you may want a bit more salt, pepper, or vinegar depending on your preferences.

Serving and Storing Your Easy BLT Pasta Salad

Perfect Pairings for Easy BLT Pasta Salad

This Easy BLT Pasta Salad serves 6 as a main dish or 8-10 as a side. It’s the perfect summer potluck or barbecue contribution, pairing beautifully with grilled meats, fresh green salads, and chilled beverages like lemonade or iced tea. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a crusty baguette or some crispy garlic bread.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about this Easy BLT Pasta Salad is that it holds up incredibly well in the fridge. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will actually intensify as it chills, so it makes a great make-ahead option for parties or meal prep.

You can also prepare the individual components in advance – cook the pasta, crumble the bacon, and chop the veggies up to 2 days ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the salad. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss everything together with the dressing and chives.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Easy BLT Pasta Salad

Creative Easy BLT Pasta Salad Variations

While the classic BLT flavors are hard to beat, you can get creative with this recipe in all sorts of ways. Try swapping out the penne for bowtie or rotini pasta for a different shape. Use grape tomatoes instead of cherry, or mix in halved cherry and yellow/orange tomatoes for a colorful twist. You could also add chopped avocado, crumbled feta cheese, or toasted pine nuts for extra creaminess and crunch.

Making Easy BLT Pasta Salad Diet-Friendly

For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of the penne. To make it vegan, swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based mayo alternative and use crispy baked tofu or tempeh instead of the bacon. And for a lower-carb take, try subbing in zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets for some of the pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of penne?
A: Absolutely! Penne works great, but you can use any short, sturdy pasta shape you prefer, like rotini, farfalle, or cavatappi.

Q: How long does it take to make this Easy BLT Pasta Salad?
A: This recipe comes together quickly, with just 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of 30 minutes.

Q: Can I make this Easy BLT Pasta Salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, this salad holds up very well in the fridge. You can store leftovers for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Q: How many servings does this Easy BLT Pasta Salad make?
A: This recipe serves 6 as a main dish or 8-10 as a side.

Q: What if I don’t like raw onions – can I still make this?
A: No problem! You can simply omit the fresh chives or substitute them with chopped fresh parsley or basil instead.

Conclusion

This Easy BLT Pasta Salad is the perfect summertime dish – it’s fresh, flavorful, and so incredibly easy to make. With its winning combination of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this Easy BLT Pasta Salad is guaranteed to be a hit. So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!