Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful pasta salad:
- 1 lb of bacon, cooked until crispy, drained, and chopped
- 2 heads of romaine, chopped
- 3 cups of rotini pasta, cooked, drained, and cooled
- 1 to 2 cups of diced tomato
For The Dressing:
- 2 teaspoons of tomato powder (optional)
- 2 teaspoons of celery salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of dill (or to taste)
- Black pepper to taste
- 1.5 cups of mayo
Directions
- Step 1: In a large pot, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Step 2: In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine, diced tomatoes, and crispy bacon.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, tomato powder, celery salt, dill, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 5: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
- Step 6: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 7: Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing pasta salad!
Nutritional Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 | Approximate Calories: 350 kcal per serving
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A1: Yes, this salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.
Q2: How long will leftovers last?
A2: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q3: Can I use other types of pasta?
A3: Absolutely! Any type of pasta can be used, but rotini holds the dressing well.
Q4: Is there a vegetarian version for this salad?
A4: Yes, you can omit the bacon and add chickpeas or additional veggies for protein.
Q5: Can I use low-fat mayo for the dressing?
A5: Yes, you can use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing option.
Conclusion
This Tangy Tomato BLT Pasta Salad is a perfect dish for any summer gathering, bringing classic flavors into a refreshing new format. It is sure to be a hit at picnics, potlucks, or any meal when you want something light and satisfying. Enjoy this simple yet impressive dish with your friends and family!
