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If you're seeking a refreshing dish that perfectly balances savory and fresh flavors, look no further than the Bacon-Love BLT Pasta Salad with Ranch. This delightful recipe brings together the classic components of a BLT sandwich—bacon, lettuce, and tomato—into a satisfying pasta salad that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer picnic, preparing for a family gathering, or simply looking for a delicious meal to enjoy at home, this pasta salad is sure to impress.

BLT Pasta Salad with Ranch

Discover the ultimate summer dish with this Bacon-Love BLT Pasta Salad with Ranch! Combining crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, this pasta salad is perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a hearty family meal. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a main or side dish, it’s sure to impress. With the creamy ranch dressing tying all the flavors together, each bite offers a delightful mix of taste and texture that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces rotini pasta

6 slices crispy bacon, chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup ranch dressing

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Set the drained pasta aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Bacon: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped bacon and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing it to drain and cool slightly.

      Mix the Salad: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, the crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, and finely chopped red onion.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the ranch dressing and olive oil over the pasta mixture. Using a large spoon, gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well-coated with the dressing. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

          Chill and Serve: For optimal flavor and best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. When ready to enjoy, give the salad another gentle toss. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings

              Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta salad in a large bowl or individual plates, and consider adding extra cherry tomato halves and a sprinkle of cheddar on top for an appealing look.