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Flavorful BLT Pasta Salad with Easy Creamy Jalapeño Ranch Dressing

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A quick and flavorful pasta salad inspired by the classic BLT, tossed with a creamy jalapeño ranch dressing that adds a subtle kick. Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or last-minute meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 2 cups Romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
  • 1 large ripe tomato, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (leave seeds in for more heat)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside to drain completely.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook 8 slices thick-cut bacon until crisp, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess fat, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, minced jalapeño, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 tablespoon fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, 2 cups chopped Romaine lettuce, diced tomato, and 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (if using).
  6. Pour the creamy jalapeño ranch dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  7. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water to prevent mushiness and keep salad texture perfect. Cook bacon in batches for even crisping. Adjust jalapeño seeds for desired heat. Dressing flavors deepen if made ahead and chilled. Toss salad gently to avoid bruising lettuce or crushing tomatoes.

Nutrition

Keywords: BLT pasta salad, creamy jalapeño ranch, bacon pasta salad, summer salad, potluck recipe, easy pasta salad, quick dinner

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