Mediterranean BLT Pasta Salad with Ranch Dressing
This pasta salad brings the classic BLT flavors into a hearty, refreshing dish with a Mediterranean twist. Crisp lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, smoky bacon, and tender pasta are tossed in a creamy ranch dressing with a touch of sour cream for extra richness. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a light meal.
Prep & Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
8 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
1½ cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
½ cup ranch dressing
1 tbsp sour cream (for creamier texture)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and sour cream until smooth.
Season with a little salt and black pepper.
Assemble the salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, chopped bacon, lettuce, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
Finish and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Garnish with fresh chives or parsley.
Serve immediately for the freshest texture.
Tips & Variations
Mediterranean Twist: Add sliced cucumbers, kalamata olives, red onion, or crumbled feta for extra flavor.
Greens Swap: Instead of lettuce, try arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens for a peppery bite.
Cheese Options: Use feta, mozzarella pearls, or shaved Parmesan instead of cheddar for a more Mediterranean feel.
Protein Boost: Mix in grilled chicken, turkey bacon, or chickpeas to make it a more filling meal.
Make Ahead: Cook and chill the pasta, then add lettuce and dressing just before serving so it stays crisp.
Lighten It Up: Use a light ranch or Greek yogurt-based dressing to reduce calories while keeping it creamy.
Serving Idea: Serve it as a main dish with warm pita bread or as a side to grilled meats, seafood, or kebabs.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results keep the pasta, bacon, and dressing mixed together, then add the lettuce and any delicate greens just before serving so they don’t wilt.
Q: What’s the best pasta shape to use?
Rotini and bowties work well because they hold the dressing, but penne or shells are also great options.
Q: Can I serve this warm instead of chilled?
It’s meant to be served cold, but you can enjoy it slightly warm if you toss everything together right after cooking the pasta.
Q: How do I keep the bacon crispy?
Add the bacon right before serving. You can also bake it in the oven instead of pan-frying for crispier pieces.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Skip the bacon and add chickpeas or roasted red peppers for protein and flavor.
Nutrition
(per serving, approx. 1/6 of recipe)
Calories: ~320
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 520mg
(Values may vary based on ingredients and dressing used.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean BLT Pasta Salad with Ranch Dressing is a fresh, creamy, and satisfying dish that blends the comfort of a classic BLT with a pasta salad twist. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. The combination of smoky bacon, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and cool ranch makes it a dish everyone will come back for.