Description
This Ranch BLT Pasta Salad is a flavorful and refreshing cold pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings or as a tasty side dish. It combines rotini pasta with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy ranch dressing blended with mayonnaise. Chilled before serving, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and classic BLT flavors with a creamy twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Salad
- 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
Dressing
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the rotini or bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and then rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce, crumbled cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped red onion if using.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and mayonnaise until smooth and well blended.
- Toss Salad: Pour the ranch and mayonnaise dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season and Chill: Season the salad with salt and pepper to your preference. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Notes
- Add diced avocado or grilled chicken for a heartier version that includes extra richness or protein.
- Toss the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.
- Use your favorite brand or homemade ranch dressing for the best flavor tailored to your taste.
