As the sun shines brighter and warmer days beckon, my cravings shift toward refreshing bites that marry comfort with lightness. Enter this creamy BLT Pasta Salad—a delightful fusion of the classic flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomato elegantly transformed into a cool pasta dish. Just imagining it brings a smile; the crispy bacon mingling with juicy grape tomatoes and crunchy red onion creates a symphony of textures, all tied together with a creamy dressing that takes just minutes to whip up.

Recently, I brought this dish to a family picnic, and it was gone in minutes! It’s the perfect answer to those summer gathering dilemmas—quick, delicious, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or seeking a simple yet crowd-pleasing picnic fare, this pasta salad has your back. Best of all, it’s so versatile—you can customize it with fresh herbs or even substitute ingredients based on what’s in your fridge. So, let’s dive into this recipe and bring a taste of summer to your table!

Why is BLT Pasta Salad a Must-Try?

Refreshing for hot days: This salad brings together the beloved flavors of a classic BLT, cooling you down while satisfying your cravings.
Quick and easy: Perfect for busy schedules, it comes together in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Enjoy it your way by swapping ingredients like using basil instead of spinach or adding rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re at a BBQ or family gathering, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit among guests.
Budget-friendly: With simple ingredients, you can serve a hearty dish without breaking the bank.
If you’re interested in more salad inspirations, check out our easy pasta salad variations.

BLT Pasta Salad Ingredients

• A delicious mix awaits!

For the Pasta Salad
• Bacon – Adds a savory, rich flavor and crispy texture; consider turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Bowtie Pasta – Serves as the base and structure of the salad; other shapes like rotini or penne can be used.
• Grape Tomatoes – Offer sweetness and freshness; substitute with halved cherry tomatoes if desired.
• Red Onion – Adds a sharp, pungent flavor and crunch; green onions can be used for a milder taste.
• Fresh Spinach – Provides color and a nutritious boost; romaine lettuce may be used for crunch if added just before serving.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess and binds the ingredients together; plain yogurt can be used for a lighter dressing.
• Ranch Dressing – Enhances flavor with tanginess; if unavailable, use additional mayonnaise mixed with herbs.
• Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and acidity to the dish; fresh lime juice can be substituted for a different citrus vibe.
• Salt & Pepper – Important for seasoning; adjust to taste based on personal preference.

This BLT Pasta Salad is not just quick and easy but also the star of summer gatherings, making it a must-try!

How to Make BLT Pasta Salad

Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 8 oz. of bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel to drain and cool, then chop or crumble into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together ¾ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup ranch dressing, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add 12 oz. bowtie pasta, and cook for 7-8 minutes until tender yet firm to the bite. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.
Prep Veggies: Slice 1 pint of grape tomatoes in half, finely dice half a red onion, and chop 1 cup of fresh spinach into small pieces, ensuring all are ready for mixing.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, spinach, tomatoes, onions, and dressing. Stir gently to coat everything evenly, then let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Optional: Garnish with extra bacon bits or fresh herbs before serving for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with BLT Pasta Salad?

Elevate your summer gatherings with delightful pairings that balance flavors and enhance your delicious pasta dish.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, these add a hearty protein that complements the freshness of the pasta salad. The charred flavors from the grill enhance the overall summer vibe.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn offers a satisfying crunch and brings a touch of nostalgia to your outdoor meal. Perfect for those sunny picnics!
Potato Chips: Crispy and salty, these provide an enjoyable crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy salad. They make for a fun, casual pairing every guest will love.
Watermelon Salad: This refreshing mix of watermelon and feta is a sweet counterpoint to the savory pasta. The juiciness of the watermelon balances the richness, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Sparkling Lemonade: Chilled and refreshing, this fizzy drink is the ideal thirst-quencher for a hot summer day, enhancing the lightness of your meal.
Brownie Bites: End your meal with a sweet touch! These fudgy treats provide a rich contrast to the creamy pasta, ensuring a balanced and satisfying dining experience.

BLT Pasta Salad Variations

Looking to make this creamy dish even more delightful? Let your imagination run wild with these fun twists!

Herb Swap: Use basil instead of spinach for a fresh, aromatic flavor that enhances the salad’s overall brightness. Basil’s fragrant notes perfectly complement the bacon and tomatoes.
Protein Boost: Add rotisserie chicken on top for a heartier meal that brings extra protein and a satisfying crunch. This is a great option for turning a side into a main dish.
Sweet Addition: Toss in sweet corn or diced bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness. These additions provide a lovely texture that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the dressing.
Veggie Kick: Incorporate zucchini or cucumber for added crunch and freshness. Their mild flavor won’t overpower the dish, making your salad even more refreshing.
Spicy Touch: Add chili flakes or jalapeños to dial up the heat. This twist will awaken your palette and turn your pasta salad into a zesty experience!
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for a delightful cheesy richness that enhances flavor and creaminess. The saltiness complements the bacon beautifully.
Nutty Flavor: Add some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy contrast and earthy flavor. This will provide a new texture and a lovely roasted note to your salad.
Citrus Zing: Swap lemon juice for lime juice to introduce a different layer of brightness and acidity. The zesty lime will bring a vibrant twist that feels refreshing on warm summer days.

Explore these variations to craft a unique BLT Pasta Salad that suits your taste!

Make Ahead Options

These BLT Pasta Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can cook the bacon and pasta up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to chill them before combining with the other ingredients. Additionally, slice the grape tomatoes, chop the spinach, and dice the red onion ahead of time, keeping them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply mix the dressing and combine all the ingredients. To maintain freshness, store the salad in the fridge and serve within a day, ensuring it stays just as delicious and crisp!

How to Store and Freeze BLT Pasta Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to meld while maintaining freshness.

Freezer: It is not recommended to freeze BLT Pasta Salad as the ingredients, especially the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, can become watery and lose texture when thawed.

Reheating: If you’re serving it slightly chilled, simply take it out of the fridge before serving. Avoid reheating as this may cause the pasta to become mushy.

Prep Ahead: If preparing in advance, consider adding the bacon last for optimal crispness. This way, your BLT Pasta Salad remains delightful and fresh-tasting!

Expert Tips for BLT Pasta Salad

Chill for Flavor: Letting the salad rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to really meld together, enhancing your BLT Pasta Salad’s taste.
Check Consistency: If the salad seems too thick after chilling, add a splash of milk or extra dressing to achieve your desired creaminess.
Avoid Soggy Bacon: If making ahead, consider adding the bacon just before serving to maintain its crispy texture.
Season Carefully: Taste your dressing before mixing it into the salad; adjust salt and pepper to ensure a balanced flavor without overpowering the dish.
Mix Ingredients Gently: Once combined, stir carefully to avoid breaking the pasta and ensure even coating with the dressing.

BLT Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

What kind of bacon should I use for the BLT Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! For this BLT Pasta Salad, I recommend using regular crispy bacon for its rich flavor and texture. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon works wonderfully too—just be sure to cook it until nice and crispy, as it adds that essential crunch.

How long can I store leftover BLT Pasta Salad?
You can store your BLT Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but allowing it to sit for a little while can enhance the flavors as they meld together. If you notice any dark spots forming on the veggies, discard them before eating.

Can I freeze BLT Pasta Salad?
I don’t recommend freezing BLT Pasta Salad, unfortunately. The mayonnaise and fresh ingredients like spinach and tomatoes tend to lose their texture and flavor once thawed, resulting in a watery salad. Instead, enjoy it fresh or store leftovers in the fridge for a couple of days.

What if my pasta is too sticky after cooking?
Very! If your pasta sticks together after cooking, make sure to rinse it with cold water right after draining. This halts the cooking process and prevents further stickiness. If it’s still sticky, you can toss in a teaspoon of olive oil before mixing it with the other ingredients; it helps separate the pasta nicely.

Is this pasta salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this BLT Pasta Salad! Simply omit the bacon and substitute it with roasted chickpeas or additional veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers to add a crunch. You can also use vegetarian mayonnaise to keep it creamy.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the components of your BLT Pasta Salad a day in advance—just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Combine the cooled pasta, veggies, and dressing shortly before serving to maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the ingredients. Enjoy!