Total Time: 25 minutes | Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes
When summer temperatures soar and the kids are begging for something besides sandwiches, this BLT Pasta Salad transforms a beloved classic into a refreshing meal that won’t heat up your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini or bow tie pasta
- 8 slices bacon
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- ⅓ cup mayo
- 2 Tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ¼ cup diced red onion (optional)
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Time-saving tip: Set a timer on your phone so you don’t forget about the pasta while handling other steps!
- While pasta cooks, place bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Cover with another paper towel and microwave for 4-6 minutes until crisp. Kitchen hack: No microwave? Cook bacon in the oven at 400°F for 15 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
- Let bacon cool slightly, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
- Drain pasta and rinse under cold water to cool quickly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Add cooled pasta to the dressing and toss until coated.
- Gently fold in tomatoes, lettuce, bacon crumbles, and optional ingredients if using.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for flavors to blend.
Easy Swaps
Protein options: Use pre-cooked chicken strips, deli turkey, or chickpeas instead of bacon
- Gluten-free? Any gluten-free pasta works perfectly
- No mayo? Use all Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter dressing
- Veggie variations: Add cucumber, bell peppers, or grated carrots for extra nutrition and crunch
- In a hurry? Use pre-cooked bacon bits from the salad topping section
Storage Tips
Store leftover salad with the lettuce separate to prevent wilting. Pro move: Pack individual portions in containers for quick grab-and-go lunches.
Kid-Friendly Adjustments
Serve components separately for selective eaters
- Let kids choose which mix-ins they want added to their portion
- Cut veggies extra small for texture-sensitive little ones
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for hesitant eaters
Got a quick family meal that saves your sanity on busy weeknights? Submit your favorite recipe to contact@organizedmomcollective.com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming post!
