A Pasta Salad That’ll Transport You Straight to Summer
As a self-proclaimed pasta salad aficionado, I can say with certainty that this BLT Pasta Salad is the epitome of summer. It’s got all the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich – crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy dressing – but in an easy-to-share pasta salad form. Trust me, this dish is about to become the star of every backyard BBQ, pool party, and picnic you attend this season.
The Inspiration Behind This Masterpiece
I first stumbled upon the idea for this BLT Pasta Salad while scrolling through The Tipsy Housewife’s blog. She raved about a “Tangy Tomato BLT Pasta Salad” that had been a family favorite for decades, and the way she described the unique tomato powder she uses had me hooked. I knew I had to put my own spin on this summertime classic.
After some experimentation in the kitchen, I landed on a version that’s equal parts creamy, tangy, and packed with that beloved BLT flavor. The key? Incorporating both mayonnaise and ranch dressing into the dressing, which gives it a delightful creaminess. I also couldn’t resist adding in some diced red onion for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Bringing the BLT to Life
Now, let’s talk about the components that make this pasta salad so darn delicious. First up, the bacon. I like to cook it until it’s good and crispy, then crumble it up into bite-sized pieces. The texture contrast it provides is essential.
Next, the tomatoes. I went with a mix of grape and cherry tomatoes, halved, for maximum flavor and juiciness in every bite. And instead of using delicate lettuce, which can get soggy in a pasta salad, I opted for hardy spinach that holds up beautifully.
A Dressing that Delivers
The dressing is where this BLT Pasta Salad really shines. As I mentioned, it’s a magical combination of mayonnaise and ranch, with a touch of lemon juice for brightness and seasoning. But the real star? That tomato powder the Tipsy Housewife raved about. It seriously amplifies the tomato flavor in the most delightful way.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – tomato powder? Where on earth do I find that? Believe it or not, it’s actually pretty easy to come by. I order mine from Home Cooking Rocks, a fantastic online cooking and recipe resource. They have a whole section dedicated to specialty ingredients like this, and the tomato powder is an absolute game-changer.
Customizing to Your Tastes
One of the best things about this BLT Pasta Salad is that it’s endlessly customizable. Don’t love spinach? Swap in romaine lettuce instead. Want to add a little heat? Toss in some diced jalapeño. Hankering for some extra crunch? Sprinkle in some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips.
The beauty of this dish is that it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. So feel free to make it your own and let your taste buds be your guide.
A Salad Fit for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or packing a picnic lunch, this BLT Pasta Salad is the perfect addition to your spread. It’s easy to whip up, travels well, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
In fact, I’d argue that this salad is so good, it could even be a main course. Pair it with some grilled chicken or a crisp green salad, and you’ve got a complete and satisfying meal.
Savor the Flavors of Summer
As the warm weather rolls in and the days grow longer, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a big bowl of this BLT Pasta Salad. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and bursting with that iconic BLT flavor we all know and love.
So go ahead, fire up the grill, grab a cold beverage, and dive into a heaping helping of this summer-inspired pasta salad. Your taste buds (and your friends and family) will thank you.
