Irresistible BLT Pasta Salad 

This BLT Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, combining the smoky richness of bacon, the freshness of romaine lettuce, and the juiciness of cherry tomatoes, all tossed with pasta and a creamy dressing. It's a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing summer meal. The vibrant colors and flavors make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups short pasta (such as rotini or penne)

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon

• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

2. Crisp the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease and cool. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.

3. Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce. Gently toss to mix.

5. Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped chives or green onions over the top before serving. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal

• Protein: 12g

• Fat: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 600mg