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Let me share my favorite summer potluck star - BLT Pasta Salad. I've turned everyone's favorite sandwich into the most amazing pasta dish packed with crispy bacon fresh lettuce juicy tomatoes all tossed in creamy ranch dressing. Every time I bring it to a gathering people beg for the recipe.
Why You'll Fall in Love
This salad just works. The way those classic BLT flavors come together with tender pasta and creamy dressing it's pure magic. I love how easy it is to throw together and you can make it your own with whatever extras you love.
What You'll Need
- Rotini: Those spirals catch all the creamy goodness.
- Bacon: Cook it fresh nice and crispy.
- Red Onion: Just enough for that perfect zing.
- Cheddar: I love it cubed but shredded works too.
- Romaine: Keeps that lettuce crunch we love.
- Avocado: Makes everything creamy and rich.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet little pops of summer.
- Parsley: Fresh herbs make everything better.
- Ranch Mix: That Hidden Valley packet works magic.
- Mayo: Full fat makes it extra creamy.
- Sour Cream: Adds that perfect tang.
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Let's Make It Together
- Start With The Dressing
- Mix up that ranch mayo and sour cream let it chill gets even better.
- Cook Your Pasta
- Keep it al dente rinse it cold stops the cooking keeps it perfect.
- Bring It All Together
- Toss everything in your biggest bowl drizzle with that creamy dressing.
- Share The Love
- Serve it up right away while everything's fresh and perfect.
Perfect Partners
I love serving this alongside grilled chicken or burgers at our backyard barbecues. Sometimes I'll add extra protein make it a whole meal. It's become our go-to for picnics and pool parties just so refreshing.
Make It Your Way
Need it dairy free? Try vegan mayo and skip the cheese. Watching carbs? Double up on lettuce instead of pasta. Sometimes I toss in cucumbers or crunchy croutons keeps things
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Keep It Fresh
This salad's best eaten within 24 hours keeps nice in the fridge. I like making it just before the party but if you need to prep ahead keep those tomatoes and lettuce separate until serving time.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I'll add grilled chicken or chickpeas make it more filling. Switch up the dressing try Italian vinaigrette for something lighter. Sunflower seeds or tortilla strips add such nice crunch.
Pasta Perfect
Those spiral rotini noodles are my favorite catch all the creamy dressing in their twists. Gluten free pasta works great too just cook it al dente. Always rinse with cold water keeps everything fresh.
Everyone's Favorite
No wonder this recipe's been shared so much it just works. Simple ingredients come together in the most delicious way. Once you try it you'll see why everyone loves it so much.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Prepare components ahead but add lettuce and dressing just before serving. Lettuce wilts quickly once dressed.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
- Best consumed within 24 hours. Store in airtight container in fridge but note lettuce will wilt.
- → Can I use different pasta?
- Any short pasta works - penne, fusilli, or bow ties. Choose pasta with ridges to hold dressing.
- → Why rinse pasta with cold water?
- Stops cooking process and prevents pasta from sticking. Always rinse pasta for cold salads.
- → Can I use pre-made ranch dressing?
- Yes, but homemade tastes better. Use about 2 cups prepared ranch if substituting.