Looking for a refreshing twist on a classic? This vibrant BLT Pasta Salad combines crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh spinach with tender pasta, all tossed in a zesty balsamic vinaigrette. It’s the perfect dish for lunch, dinner, or those sunny potlucks!
Budget Information
The total cost to make this delicious BLT Pasta Salad is approximately $12.50, making it about $1.25 per serving for 10 servings. Here’s the breakdown:
- Pasta: $1.50
- Bacon: $4.00
- Cherry or grape tomatoes: $2.50
- Baby spinach: $2.00
- Red onion: $0.75
- Mozzarella: $2.00
- Balsamic vinaigrette: $1.75
Why This Recipe Works
This BLT Pasta Salad works wonders because it effortlessly blends the beloved flavors of a classic sandwich into a light, refreshing dish. You get the savory crunch of bacon paired with the juicy sweetness of tomatoes and the mild earthiness of spinach, all enveloped in a light dressing that brings everything together. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for a crowd, making it a reliable go-to for any occasion!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:
- Pasta – 12 oz. (farfalle, penne, or spiral will work beautifully) – $1.50
- Bacon – 8 oz. (crispy, diced) – $4.00
- Cherry or grape tomatoes – 1 pint (halved) – $2.50
- Baby spinach – 5 oz. (roughly chopped) – $2.00
- Red onion – 1 medium (diced) – $0.75
- Mozzarella – 8 oz. (small balls or diced) – $2.00
- Balsamic vinaigrette – ½ cup (store-bought or homemade) – $1.75
Feel free to swap kale for spinach if you want a heartier green or use a different cheese such as feta for a tangier kick!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions; typically, you’ll want to achieve that perfect al dente texture—firm but cooked through. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This little trick also prevents the pasta from getting mushy. Transfer it to a spacious mixing bowl.
Step 2: Next up, it’s time to add the stars of the show! Toss in the diced bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped baby spinach, diced red onion, and creamy mozzarella bites to the bowl filled with pasta. It’s a colorful array that will make your taste buds dance!
Step 3: Now, for the dressing magic! Pour about half a cup of balsamic vinaigrette over your pasta mixture. The key here is to be gentle—grab a large spoon and lightly toss everything together until it’s just coated. Taste it and if you feel bold, drizzle a little more dressing to take it up a notch!
Step 4: Finally, let that salad rest for a few minutes so the flavors can mingle and become best friends. Once ready, serve it chilled or at room temperature, perhaps with a little extra vinaigrette on the side for those who crave that extra zing. Enjoy your creation!
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 217
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 260mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
This BLT Pasta Salad can easily be made ahead of time! Just toss all the ingredients together, but hold back some of the vinaigrette for serving later. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you find yourself needing to reheat, just let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to take off the chill before serving – or enjoy it cold!
Serving Suggestions
This salad stands quite well on its own, but consider serving it alongside some grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. You could also pair it with crusty bread or homemade garlic bread for a lovely supper. It’s a vibrant dish great for summer picnics or potlucks, sharing great flavors that everyone will appreciate!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Don’t overcook your pasta! The al dente texture will make sure that it holds up well in the salad and doesn’t turn mushy. Also, feel free to get creative with the ingredients—add in avocados, cucumbers, or even jalapeños if you want a bit of kick! And remember to let the salad sit for a bit to absorb all those fabulous flavors before serving; it makes all the difference!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep or parties. Just mix everything and save some dressing for later.
What pasta works best for this salad? Really any pasta will do, but I recommend using smaller shapes like farfalle or penne so every bite is full of flavor!
How long can I store leftovers? You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to check for freshness first!
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? Absolutely! Turkey bacon works well if you’re looking for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
Is there a vegan option? You can definitely make it vegan by swapping the bacon for smoked tempeh and using dairy-free cheese. Just be sure to check the dressing for dairy!
