BLT Ranch Pasta Salad Delight

BLT Ranch Pasta Salad Delight is a flavorful, hearty side dish inspired by the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich. Packed with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing, this pasta salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or easy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines two favorites: BLT sandwich and pasta salad.
• Creamy and crunchy, with bacon and ranch in every bite.
• Crowd-pleaser, ideal for gatherings or lunchboxes.
• Easy to prepare, using simple and affordable ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rotini or bowtie pasta
• Crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
• Cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
• Diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• Shredded lettuce or chopped romaine
• Ranch dressing
• Mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: cheddar cheese cubes, chopped green onions

Directions

1. Cook pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
2. Prepare mix-ins: While pasta cools, cook and crumble bacon. Dice vegetables and halve tomatoes.
3. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix pasta, bacon, tomatoes, peppers, and lettuce.
4. Add dressing: Pour in ranch dressing and mayonnaise (if using). Stir to coat evenly.
5. Season and chill: Add salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Serve: Garnish with cheese cubes or green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Low-carb version: Use cauliflower florets or spiralized veggies instead of pasta.
• Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken or boiled eggs.
• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free ranch and omit cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to refresh the dressing. Do not freeze. Best served cold.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare a few hours in advance and chill to let flavors blend.

Can I use bottled ranch?

Absolutely—choose a brand you like or make your own.

What’s the best pasta for this?

Short pasta like rotini or bowties works best for holding dressing.

Does the lettuce get soggy?

Add lettuce just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes—just omit the bacon or replace it with plant-based bacon bits.

Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, it’s a lighter alternative and works well here.

What cheese pairs best?

Cheddar cubes or shredded Colby Jack are flavorful and blend well.

How do I keep the salad creamy?

Chilling can cause pasta to absorb dressing, so add a little more before serving if needed.

Can I add avocado?

Yes, but add it right before serving to avoid browning.

Is this good for picnics?

Yes, just keep it chilled and store in a cooler if transporting.

Conclusion

BLT Ranch Pasta Salad Delight is the perfect blend of comfort and freshness in one easy-to-make dish. With bold ranch flavor, crispy bacon, and colorful vegetables, it’s a guaranteed hit at any meal or event. Ideal for make-ahead lunches, potlucks, or casual dinners, this salad delivers satisfying flavor in every bite.

BLT Ranch Pasta Salad Delight

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BLT Ranch Pasta Salad Delight is a vibrant and satisfying salad that brings together the classic flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomato with creamy ranch dressing and tender pasta. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or easy weeknight meals.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz pasta (rotini or preferred shape)
• 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
• 1.5 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 green onions, sliced
• 2 cups chopped lettuce
• 3/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: 1 diced avocado
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper

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Instructions

1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool; drain again.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped bacon, halved tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped lettuce.
3. Add ranch dressing and mayonnaise (if using), then toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add more dressing if a creamier texture is desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, toss again and top with optional ingredients like avocado, extra bacon, or cheese.

Notes

• Use short pasta shapes like rotini or bowties for the best texture.
• Rinse pasta thoroughly and cool completely to prevent sogginess.
• Store in the fridge and stir before serving to redistribute dressing.
• Best served cold or at room temperature. Not freezer-friendly.
• Customize with extra veggies or protein like chicken or turkey.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg