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BLT Pasta Salad

BLT Pasta Salad

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This BLT Pasta Salad brings together smoky, crunchy, fresh, and tangy flavors in one vibrant bowl. Featuring smoked turkey bacon, rotini pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and green onions, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with plant-based mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar. Perfect for a light lunch, a flavorful side, or an easy make-ahead meal that bursts with color and freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6 ounces rotini pasta
  • 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup plant-based mayonnaise (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (natural)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the rotini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely to prevent wilting the fresh vegetables.
  2. Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on a paper towel to remove excess grease, then chop into bite-sized pieces once cooled.
  3. Chop Fresh Vegetables: Dice the cherry tomatoes, roughly chop the romaine lettuce, and thinly slice the green onions to add vibrant color and crisp texture to the salad.
  4. Make the Zesty Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together plant-based mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard (natural), garlic powder (natural), salt, pepper, and natural gelling agent until creamy and tangy.
  5. Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the cooled pasta, smoked turkey bacon, and chopped vegetables with the dressing until everything is evenly coated and flavorful.
  6. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy a bright, savory, and refreshing BLT Pasta Salad.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain a slight bite that holds well in the salad.
  • Ensure pasta and bacon are completely cooled before mixing to preserve lettuce crunch and prevent wilting.
  • Use the natural gelling agent sparingly to achieve a creamy but pourable dressing texture.
  • Add salt and pepper gradually to the dressing to avoid over-salting.
  • Use the freshest tomatoes and lettuce for maximum flavor and color.
  • For garnish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives and extra crispy turkey bacon bits.
  • This salad pairs well with grilled veggies, crusty bread with herb-infused olive oil, or fruity sides like grilled peaches or citrus salad.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; do not freeze.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling and Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg

Keywords: BLT Pasta Salad, smoked turkey bacon salad, rotini pasta salad, plant-based dressing, easy pasta salad, picnic salad

Find it online: https://quicktastykitchen.com/blt-pasta-salad/