This BLT Pasta Salad blends the familiar flavors of a BLT sandwich — crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and fresh spinach — with pasta (elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or penne) and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a bright, refreshing side that’s ideal for summer picnics, barbecues, or a light weeknight dinner.
Best BLT Pasta Salad – The Perfect Summer Side Dish!
I love a classic BLT — the crunch of bacon with juicy tomatoes and crisp greens — and I also make pasta salads all summer long. Combining those two favorites gives you a creamy, flavorful pasta salad that’s simple to make and crowd-pleasing.
During warm months I try a new pasta salad almost every week, and this BLT version quickly became a go-to. It’s straightforward to prepare, stores well, and travels nicely for potlucks and picnics.
Why you’ll enjoy this BLT Pasta Salad:
- Creamy texture that pairs well with varied elements like crispy bacon and juicy tomatoes
- Quick and easy to assemble with pantry-friendly ingredients
- Great for gatherings — perfect for BBQs, family picnics, or an easy weeknight meal
All the classic BLT flavors in a creamy pasta salad — ready in minutes and full of summertime taste.
❤️ Ashley
Ingredients for BLT Pasta Salad
Below are the main ingredients used in this recipe. Exact amounts are listed in the recipe card further down.
- Pasta – elbow macaroni works well, but rotini, penne, or cavatappi are all great options.
- Bacon – thick-cut gives the best texture; bake or pan-fry then crumble.
- Greens – baby spinach is my go-to; you can also use baby kale or arugula for a peppery note.
- Tomatoes – grape or cherry tomatoes, halved, add bright sweetness and juiciness.
- Optional add-ins – diced avocado, shredded cheese, toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Pro Tip
Let the salad chill for at least one hour before serving so the dressing can meld with the pasta and produce the best flavor.
How to make BLT Pasta Salad
This is a quick, straightforward summer side. Follow these steps to assemble it.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain, and rinse under cold water until cooled.
- Whisk the dressing together: mayonnaise, a bit of sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Combine the cooled pasta with halved grape tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and chopped baby spinach. Toss gently with the dressing until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve cold as a side or a light main.
Light, fresh, and full of classic BLT flavor, this salad is likely to become a favorite for summer gatherings. If you enjoy pasta salads, try other variations with different dressings, cheeses, or add-ins to keep things interesting.
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BLT Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice
- 8 ounces grape tomatoes halved
- 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta) and cook according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. Drain again and set aside.
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Make the dressing: In a large bowl whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
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Assemble the salad: Add the cooled pasta to the dressing. Stir in 8 ounces halved grape tomatoes, 8 slices cooked and crumbled bacon, and 2 cups chopped fresh baby spinach. Mix gently until evenly coated.
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Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy.