BLT Pasta Salad

This fresh and creamy pasta salad is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or BBQs. Crisp bacon, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a creamy ranch-mayo dressing make it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Servings: 6–8

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional, for best flavor)

Ingredients:

• 16 oz bowtie pasta

• 10 slices bacon

• 10–12 oz cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered

• 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 cup ranch dressing

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Prepare the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.

2. Cook Bacon: Bake bacon in the oven at 425°F for 12–15 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Let cool and chop into bite-sized pieces.

3. Prep Veggies: Halve or quarter cherry tomatoes and chop romaine lettuce.

4. Combine Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped bacon, cherry tomatoes, romaine lettuce, and shredded cheddar cheese.

5. Add Dressing: Stir in mayonnaise and ranch dressing until everything is evenly coated.

6. Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.