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BLT Macaroni Salad

A cool, crunchy pasta salad with bacon, tomatoes, and a creamy dressing, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni Use slightly undercooked pasta for firmer texture.
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled Crisp bacon last for best crunch.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Cherry tomatoes keep their shape well.
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise May substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream May substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh Ingredients
  • 1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce Romaine holds up better than delicate greens.
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.
  2. Meanwhile, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it sizzles and the edges turn deep golden; drain on paper towels and crumble when cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper until smooth and glossy.
  4. Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl, then toss in the crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped lettuce, green onions, and parsley. Mix gently.
Chilling and Serving
  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour so the flavors meld and the dressing chills through.
  2. Before serving, give the salad a final stir; add a splash of milk or more mayo to reach a silky consistency if necessary.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days; lettuce softens after day two. Avoid freezing as the dressing separates and lettuce wilts. Leftover idea: Make a quick BLT-style wrap with a scoop of salad, extra lettuce, and warm toast or tortilla.