BLT Caesar Pasta Salad combines two beloved classics—BLT sandwiches and Caesar salad—into one fresh, flavorful dish. This salad is the perfect balance of textures, with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce paired with pasta to give it some substance. Tossed with a creamy Caesar dressing, the dish is rich yet refreshing, making it great for a picnic, potluck, or quick dinner. The pasta helps it feel like a complete meal, while the bacon and Caesar dressing add just the right amount of indulgence. The salad can be served warm or cold, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (rotini or bowtie work best)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: croutons for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down, then set aside.
- Cook the bacon: While the pasta is cooking, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Caesar dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a few grinds of black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine lettuce, and Parmesan cheese. Pour the Caesar dressing over the top and toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and top with croutons for added crunch, if desired. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for an hour to chill before serving.
Enjoy your BLT Caesar Pasta Salad as a main dish or a side!
