Ultimate BLT Pasta Salad Recipe for Perfect Picnics

Imagine a dish that combines the comforting embrace of pasta with the crisp freshness of a classic BLT. The flavors meld together in perfect harmony, creating a delightful symphony of textures and aromas that dance on your palate. This BLT Pasta Salad is not just food; it’s a celebration of summer picnics and family barbecues, where laughter echoes through the air and everyone is ready to dig in.

Now, picture this: you’re at a potluck, armed with your beautiful bowl of BLT Pasta Salad. People are drawn to its vibrant colors, and as they take their first bite, their faces light up with joy. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, making memories as delicious as the food itself. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients for BLT Pasta Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rotini Pasta: About 8 ounces will do the trick; this shape holds onto sauce beautifully.
• Cooked Chicken Breast: Use about 1 cup diced chicken for protein; grilled or rotisserie works great.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Slice these sweet gems in half for bursts of flavor throughout the salad.
• Romaine Lettuce: Chop up about 2 cups for that crispy green crunch we all love.
• Cucumber: One medium cucumber will add refreshing crispness; peel if desired.

For the Dressing:

• Mayonnaise: About half a cup gives creaminess; use light mayo if you’re watching calories.
• Greek Yogurt: Mix in about half a cup for tanginess and extra creaminess.
• Lemon Juice: One tablespoon adds brightness; fresh juice is always best!
• Dijon Mustard: Just one tablespoon enhances flavor; adjust to taste if you like more zing.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make BLT Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced chicken breast, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine lettuce, and sliced cucumber. Toss gently to mix everything evenly.

Step 4: Add Dressing

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss again until all ingredients are well-coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Chill Out

Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving—this allows flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to a large serving bowl or individual plates. For an added touch, garnish with extra cherry tomatoes or cucumbers on top before digging in!

This BLT Pasta Salad is not just great for summer picnics but versatile enough for any occasion—think barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep for those busy weekdays. Now go forth and impress your friends with this delightful dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions while sautéing diced chicken or turkey in a separate pan. Once both are ready, mix them together with your favorite fresh ingredients to create a delightful blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different proteins like grilled shrimp or roasted vegetables. Add zing with your choice of dressings or include extra toppings like avocado or olives for added flavor and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, simply toss it back into a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Sometimes, I whip up this BLT Pasta Salad for potlucks, and it never fails to impress! Friends always ask for the recipe, claiming it’s their new summer favorite.

FAQs:

What is a BLT Pasta Salad?

A BLT Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of a bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich with pasta. Instead of bacon, this recipe uses cooked turkey or chicken to maintain the savory profile while keeping it light. Fresh tomatoes and crisp lettuce provide the crunch and freshness needed for a satisfying side dish or main course. Tossed in a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings, this salad is perfect for picnics or potlucks.

How can I make my BLT Pasta Salad healthier?

To create a healthier version of BLT Pasta Salad, consider using whole grain pasta instead of regular pasta for added fiber. You can also incorporate more vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra nutrients. Replace regular mayonnaise with a lighter version or Greek yogurt to reduce calories and fat content. This way, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors while making mindful choices for your health.

Can I prepare BLT Pasta Salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare BLT Pasta Salad in advance! In fact, letting it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To maintain freshness, store the salad in an airtight container. If you’re adding lettuce, consider mixing it just before serving to keep it crisp. This makes it an ideal dish for meal prep or gatherings, saving you time while providing a delightful meal.

What variations can I try with my BLT Pasta Salad?

You can explore various creative twists on your BLT Pasta Salad. Consider adding ingredients like diced avocados for creaminess or grilled vegetables for smoky flavor. If you’re looking for extra protein, try including chickpeas or shredded cheese. For a tangy kick, add olives or pickles. The versatility of this recipe encourages experimentation with different flavors and textures based on your preferences.

Conclusion for BLT Pasta Salad:

BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of classic sandwich ingredients transformed into a refreshing dish. By substituting turkey or chicken for traditional bacon and adding fresh vegetables like tomatoes and lettuce, you create a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Its versatility allows you to experiment with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences while maintaining its essence. Whether served at gatherings or as part of meal prep, this salad promises to be a hit every time. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors in each bite!

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BLT Pasta Salad

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BLT Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that marries the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with hearty rotini pasta. This delightful salad features crispy bacon alternatives, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy romaine lettuce, all tossed in a creamy dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, this easy-to-make recipe will impress your family and friends while providing a light and satisfying meal.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast (diced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 2 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
• 1 medium cucumber (sliced)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine lettuce, and sliced cucumber. Toss gently to mix.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until well-coated.
5. Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Chilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider using grilled shrimp or roasted vegetables as protein alternatives. - Customize your salad by adding toppings like avocado or olives for extra texture. - Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.