Description

This vibrant BLT Pasta Salad combines smoky turkey bacon, crisp fresh vegetables, and a zesty plant-based dressing to create a refreshing and balanced dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, it is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or simple weeknight dinners. The salad offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures with hearty pasta, crunchy veggies, and a creamy tangy dressing that will become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

6 slices smoked turkey bacon
3 cups cooked rotini pasta (cooled)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/2 cup plant-based mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
1 teaspoon mustard (natural)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta for the salad.
Prepare the Bacon: Fry the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Place it on paper towels to drain excess oil, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Chop Fresh Veggies: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and tear the romaine lettuce into small bite-sized pieces. Chop fresh parsley for garnish.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the plant-based mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar (natural), mustard (natural), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, bacon, chopped veggies, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until well coated.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Give it one final toss before plating.

Notes

Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after chilling.
Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and keep it fresh.
Use fresh, crisp veggies for the best texture and flavor.
Add dressing gradually to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Toss in bacon last to maintain its crispy texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: No-bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 280
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: BLT Pasta Salad, turkey bacon salad, summer pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, plant-based dressing