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Bring a fresh and flavorful twist to your classic macaroni salad with this BLT Macaroni Salad.
Combining the beloved flavors of a BLT sandwich—crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce—with tender macaroni, this dish is a perfect addition to any picnic, barbecue, or family gathering.
The creamy dressing ties everything together, making this salad both satisfying and refreshing.
Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this BLT Macaroni Salad is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta shape
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Cook the Macaroni
Begin by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also cools the pasta quickly, which is essential for making a chilled salad. Set the macaroni aside to drain completely.
Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This creamy, tangy dressing is the perfect complement to the rich flavors of the bacon and the freshness of the tomatoes and lettuce.
Assemble the Salad
Add the drained and cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Toss the macaroni in the dressing until well coated. Next, gently fold in the crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine lettuce, and finely chopped red onion. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the ingredients intact and evenly distributed.
Chill the Salad
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor if desired. Serve this BLT Macaroni Salad as a side dish or a light main course, and enjoy the refreshing combination of flavors and textures.
Tips
- Pasta Options: While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta shape you like, such as rotini, penne, or bowtie, for a fun twist.
- Bacon Tips: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through. This method also keeps the bacon flat and evenly cooked.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving to freshen it up.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to customize this salad with additional ingredients such as avocado, shredded cheese, or cucumbers for added texture and flavor.
This BLT Macaroni Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies makes it a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!
