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Easy 20-Minute No-Cook BLT Pasta Salad

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A quick, no-cook pasta salad inspired by the classic BLT sandwich, featuring smoky bacon, fresh tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for light, refreshing summer meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces small pasta (elbow macaroni or mini shells)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
  • 1/2 cup small-curd cottage cheese, blended smooth
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • About 1/2 cup cold water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing by blending cottage cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, whisk vigorously by hand.
  2. Place dry pasta in a large mixing bowl, add about 1/2 cup cold water, stir to coat, and let sit for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender but slightly firm.
  3. Cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy (5-7 minutes), drain on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Use pre-cooked bacon if short on time.
  4. Halve cherry tomatoes and shred lettuce; set aside.
  5. Drain excess water from pasta if needed, then add dressing, chopped bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce. Gently fold to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve immediately chilled or let chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Use small pasta shapes for best soaking results. If pasta feels dry after soaking, add more dressing or a splash of water. Blend cottage cheese for a smooth dressing texture. Season gradually and taste as you go. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, substitute sour cream and cottage cheese with dairy-free alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: BLT pasta salad, no-cook pasta salad, summer salad, quick pasta salad, bacon pasta salad, easy pasta salad, no boil pasta salad

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/easy-20-minute-no-cook-blt-pasta-salad-recipe-for-perfect-summer-meals/