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If you’re craving a dish that brings together the savory crunch of bacon, the freshness of garden tomatoes, and the comforting heartiness of pasta, you’ve absolutely got to try this BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, transformed into a creamy, tangy pasta salad that’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or simply a flavorful side at dinner. The vibrant colors, balanced textures, and fresh flavors come together just right to make it an instant favorite in any lineup of dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe calls for simple, straightforward ingredients that pack a punch in both taste and texture. Each component plays its role beautifully, from the tender pasta serving as a comforting base, to the crispy bacon adding irresistible crunch and smoky depth.
- 8 oz elbow macaroni: Choose a sturdy pasta shape that holds the dressing well and mixes easily with other ingredients.
- 6 slices bacon: Cooked until crispy and crumbled, this delivers the signature smoky crunch that sets the salad apart.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness add freshness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce: Adds a crisp, refreshing element to balance the creamy dressing.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base that ties all flavors together.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tang and smoothness, enriching the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Offers a subtle tartness that brightens every bite.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives a mild kick and depth to the dressing.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a hint of savory warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Chopped green onions (optional): A fresh, slightly sharp garnish that adds a burst of color and flavor.
How to Make BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta and Bacon
Begin by cooking your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and let it cool completely. While the pasta is cooking, cook your bacon until it’s deliciously crispy. Once cooled, crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Ensuring both the pasta and bacon are at room temperature is important to prevent the lettuce from wilting later on.
Step 2: Mix the Fresh Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled elbow macaroni with the crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped lettuce. This colorful medley forms the foundation of your BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe and sets the stage for all the creamy goodness to come.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth and creamy dressing. This blend perfectly balances tang, creaminess, and a touch of spice that elevates every bite.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
Pour your dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial to let the flavors meld into a harmonious whole, and it’s when your BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe truly shines.
How to Serve BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To finish off your salad, sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh, zesty touch. If you want to add a bit more flair and richness, diced avocado or shredded cheddar cheese makes a wonderful addition that complements the bacon beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, burgers, or fish, making it a versatile companion for any main course. Its creamy and tangy profile is especially refreshing alongside summertime BBQ flavors, offering a delightful contrast that guests will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe in hollowed-out tomatoes or small lettuce cups as individual servings. This makes for a charming presentation at parties or gatherings and lets you show off the salad’s colorful ingredients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, as the dressing might thicken or settle.
Freezing
Because of the fresh lettuce and mayonnaise-based dressing, freezing isn’t recommended for this salad. The texture and flavor would suffer. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not necessary or advisable. If you prefer it slightly less chilled, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before eating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works perfectly for this recipe, small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne also hold the dressing well and mix nicely with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this salad lighter?
Yes! Substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy but lighter dressing that still maintains creaminess, perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
How do I keep the lettuce from getting soggy?
Make sure your pasta is well cooled before mixing, and toss the salad gently to avoid crushing the lettuce. Chilling the salad also helps the lettuce stay crisp longer.
Can I add other veggies or ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced avocado, shredded cheese, or even a handful of crispy croutons for extra texture and flavor variation.
Does this recipe work as a gluten-free dish?
Yes, just use gluten-free elbow macaroni or your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you’ll have a delicious BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
Final Thoughts
This BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe is a shining example of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s creamy, crunchy, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavor. Whether you’re planning a picnic or looking to jazz up a weekday meal, this salad is a sure winner. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love all over again with this classic combo reinvented!
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BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This classic BLT Macaroni Salad combines crispy bacon, fresh cherry tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce with tender elbow macaroni tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a refreshing summer side dish or a picnic favorite, it’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Bacon
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine pasta and mix-ins: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled elbow macaroni, crumbled crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped lettuce. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Toss pasta with dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated with the creamy dressing.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and add additional salt and pepper if needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the salad chill thoroughly.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally sprinkle with chopped green onions for added color and flavor. Serve cold and enjoy.
Notes
- Add diced avocado or shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness and flavor.
- For a lighter version of the dressing, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream.
- Ensure the cooked pasta is completely cooled before mixing it with lettuce to prevent wilting.
