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Creamy BLT Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Ranch Dressing Twist

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A refreshing and satisfying creamy BLT pasta salad featuring crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and a homemade ranch dressing that brings a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) rotini or elbow macaroni pasta
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
  • 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat)
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tsp lemon juice as substitute)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried dill weed
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Optional: dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 8 slices of thick-cut bacon and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1/4 cup buttermilk. Add 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried dill, 1/2 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning or add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
  4. Halve 1.5 cups of cherry tomatoes, chop 2 cups romaine lettuce, and thinly slice 3 green onions.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, and green onions. Pour the homemade ranch dressing over the top and gently toss to coat evenly.
  6. Squeeze 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice over the salad and toss once more. If desired, sprinkle with smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce. Chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent mushiness. Cook bacon until crispy for best texture. Whisk dressing gradually adding herbs and taste as you go. Dressing can be made a day ahead for better flavor. Toss salad gently to avoid bruising lettuce. Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days. Reheating not recommended; warm pasta and bacon separately if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: BLT pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, homemade ranch dressing, bacon pasta salad, summer salad, easy pasta salad, picnic salad

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