Description
A refreshing and flavorful BLT pasta salad combining al dente bow tie pasta with crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomato, crunchy bacon, and a creamy barbecue ranch dressing, perfect for a quick and satisfying side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 2½ cups uncooked bow tie pasta
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, diced
Meat
- 4 cooked bacon strips, chopped
Dressing
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta and stop the cooking process.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with chopped romaine lettuce, diced tomato, and chopped cooked bacon to create the base of the salad.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, and black pepper until smooth and well blended.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld nicely. Serve chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water to prevent it from sticking and to cool it down for the salad.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
- You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- If preparing ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to avoid sogginess.
