Authentic BLT Pasta Salad
This Authentic BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, combining tender elbow macaroni with crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and chopped green onions. Tossed in a creamy dressing of fat-free mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, infused with tangy apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and savory Ranch seasoning, this salad delivers a burst of flavors in every bite.
Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Let the flavors meld together in the refrigerator before serving for a refreshing dish that’s sure to please.
Authentic BLT Pasta Salad
Ingredients
3 ½ to 3 ⅔ cup cooked elbow macaroni or your choice of pasta
2 cups baby tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup green onions, chopped
4 to 6 slices bacon, fried, drained and crumbled
2 tsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp sugar, (optional)
½ cup mayonnaise, fat free
⅓ cup plain, low fat Greek Yogurt
2 tbsp dry Ranch seasoning mix
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
FIRST STEP:
Boil the pasta according to package directions, drain and rinse
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the bacon crumbles, green onions and halved cherry tomatoes
Stir to blend well
SECOND STEP:
In a medium bowl place the Greek Yogurt, mayonnaise, Worcestershire Sauce, Apple Cider vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper, Ranch seasoning mix and dijon mustard
Blend the mayonnaise mix well to combine all ingredients completely
THIRD STEP:
Add the mayo mix to the bowl of pasta
Stir well and sprinkle some parsley over the top
Cover and place into the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Enjoy!
Notes:
Pasta Choice: Use elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice; ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture in the salad.
Ingredients Freshness: Opt for fresh baby tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, which add a burst of sweetness and color.
Bacon Preparation: Crisp up the bacon until it’s golden and drain well to avoid excess grease in the salad.
Creamy Dressing: The combination of fat-free mayonnaise and low-fat Greek yogurt creates a creamy base without excessive calories.
Flavor Enhancers: Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang, while Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce provide depth of flavor. Adjust sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
Seasoning: Dry Ranch seasoning mix offers a convenient blend of herbs and spices that complement the salad’s flavors.
Make-ahead: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving enhances the melding of flavors.
Garnish: Sprinkling parsley over the top adds a fresh herbal note and enhances visual appeal.
Serving: Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for gatherings due to its ease of preparation and refreshing taste.
Variations: Customize by adding shredded cheese, diced avocado, or swapping out ingredients to suit personal taste preferences.
Nutrition Information:
YIELD: 4 SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving: CALORIES: 84TOTAL FAT: 12gSATURATED FAT: 6gTRANS FAT: 6gCHOLESTEROL: 62mgCARBOHYDRATES: 48gSUGAR: 8gPROTEIN: 10g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of pasta for the BLT Pasta Salad?
Yes, you can use your choice of pasta.
Elbow macaroni works well, but you can experiment with other shapes.
Is it necessary to rinse the cooked pasta?
Rinsing the pasta stops the cooking process and removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming too sticky.
It also helps cool the pasta for the salad.
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon for the recipe?
Yes, you can use regular bacon.
Turkey bacon is a leaner option, but the choice depends on your preference.
Why use apple cider vinegar in the dressing?
Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy flavor to the dressing, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
Is sugar optional in the dressing?
Yes, sugar is optional and can be adjusted to taste.
It adds a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
Can I substitute mayonnaise with a lighter alternative?
Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise to reduce the overall calorie content of the dressing.
What other vegetables can I add to the pasta salad for extra crunch?
You can add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or celery for additional texture and flavor.
How long can I refrigerate the BLT Pasta Salad before serving?
It’s recommended to refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
You can refrigerate for longer if desired.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it separately?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately.
Mix it with the pasta just before serving.
What are some suggested variations for this BLT Pasta Salad?
You can add grilled chicken, avocado slices, or crumbled feta cheese for additional flavors and textures.