Go Back
–+ servings
BLT Pasta Salad

BLT Pasta Salad

This refreshing BLT Pasta Salad brings together crispy bacon, fresh romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheddar cheese, and smooth avocado, all tossed in a homemade Hidden Valley ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and weeknight dinners, this make-ahead salad tastes even better after the flavors mingle in the refrigerator.
Save this recipe on Pinterest for later! Print
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Madison Turner

Ingredients

  • 1 16-ounce box rotini pasta cooked, drained, and rinsed with cold water
  • 13 slices bacon cooked and chopped
  • ½ large red onion finely diced
  • 1½ cups cheddar cheese cut into cubes after measuring
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce cut or torn into bite-size pieces after measuring
  • 1 avocado cut into small pieces
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes cut in half after measuring
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 1-ounce packet Hidden Valley Dressing Mix dry
  • 1½ cups mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream

Instructions

  • Cook pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil, then add a pinch of salt, add the rotini and cook according to package directions, usually 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente.
  • Cool completely: Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cold water until completely cooled, about 2 to 3 minutes of running water, then drain well again to remove excess moisture.
  • Mix dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the Hidden Valley Dressing Mix powder with the mayonnaise and sour cream, then whisk vigorously for about 1 to 2 minutes until smooth with no lumps remaining.
  • Combine pasta and veggies: In a large serving bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, diced red onion, cheddar cheese cubes, and halved cherry tomatoes.
  • Add greens: Gently fold in the romaine lettuce and avocado pieces just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent wilting.
  • Toss with dressing: Add the creamy dressing to the bowl and toss everything together until every piece is evenly coated, about 2 to 3 minutes of gentle tossing.
  • Finish: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor, then serve chilled.