BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich, transformed into a colorful, hearty pasta salad. This dish combines crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tender pasta tossed in a creamy dressing for a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a satisfying side dish for any meal. Easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing, this salad is a fresh way to enjoy your favorite BLT ingredients all in one bowl.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
  
  

• 8 slices bacon
  
  

• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  
  

• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  
  

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  
  

• ½ cup mayonnaise
  
  

• ¼ cup sour cream
  
  

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  
  

• 1 tablespoon sugar
  
  

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
   
   

2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon.
   
   

3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
   
   

4. Add cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
   
   

5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx., serves 6):

• Calories: 370 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: 22 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 8 g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 45 mg
  
  

• Sodium: 600 mg
  
  

• Total Carbohydrates: 28 g
  
  

• Dietary Fiber: 2 g
  
  

• Sugars: 5 g
  
  

• Protein: 14 g