BLT Macaroni Salad Bacon Tomato

Few things say picnic nostalgia like a chilled BLT macaroni salad tossed with smoky bacon crispy lettuce and bright cherry tomatoes This recipe brings familiar comfort with a creamy tangy dressing that clings to every noodle making it a staple for summer suppers or potluck spreads It is just as friendly on a weeknight table as it is at a family barbecue

I first tested this out for a Fourth of July picnic and my family barely left enough for the next day Now it is the most requested dish for our outdoor get togethers

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: ensures bite size pasta texture and catches the dressing Choose a sturdy brand for best results
• Bacon: offers smoky salty crunch Select thick cut bacon for rich flavor
• Cherry tomatoes: bring sweet juicy bursts Go for firm ripe ones
• Mayonnaise: adds creaminess Opt for a good quality brand or homemade
• Sour cream: lends light tang to balance the richness Use full fat for best mouthfeel
• Dijon mustard: provides a subtle sharpness Use fresh from the jar for punch
• Apple cider vinegar: offers a gentle tang Pick raw unfiltered for extra depth
• Honey: gives subtle sweetness to round out the flavors Look for golden local honey
• Salt and black pepper: allow you to fine tune the seasoning Use fresh cracked pepper for brightness
• Romaine or iceberg lettuce: keeps the salad crisp Choose fresh green heads without wilting
• Green onions: add mild onion flavor and color Pick bright stalks without slime
• Fresh parsley: lifts everything with herbal freshness Select leafy bunches

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Prepare the elbow macaroni according to package directions in generously salted water until just al dente Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and set aside This cooling step keeps the pasta firm

Make the Creamy Dressing:

In a large mixing bowl blend the mayonnaise sour cream Dijon mustard apple cider vinegar honey salt and black pepper Whisk until completely smooth and creamy Taste and adjust salt and pepper until you love it

Combine Salad Components:

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl along with the crispy cooked bacon cherry tomatoes chopped lettuce green onions and parsley Gently turn everything with a large spoon so all pieces are coated but the vegetables stay perky

Chill to Meld Flavors:

Cover the salad tightly and chill for at least one hour This resting time lets the flavors merge and improves the texture

Give a Final Stir Before Serving:

Just before serving gently mix again If the salad seems a bit dry a splash of milk or extra mayo will revive that creamy texture Serve it cold to keep everything fresh and bright

Crispy smoky bacon is my favorite part of this salad It never fails to remind me of summer family gatherings when everyone gathers around the bowl hoping for the biggest bacon bits My little one even helps crumble bacon for us

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days If the lettuce starts to soften simply stir in a handful of freshly chopped lettuce right before serving to revive the crunch It is best not to freeze because of the lettuce

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use rotini or bowtie pasta in place of elbow macaroni If you are out of sour cream plain Greek yogurt is a good stand in Try turkey bacon for a lighter option or toss in chopped avocado for extra silkiness

Serving Suggestions

Bring this salad to a picnic and serve alongside grilled chicken or burgers It makes a hearty lunch on its own or a cheerful side for a potluck For a little extra tang add a handful of diced pickles just before serving

Cultural Context

The BLT has been a lunch counter classic for decades and this salad pays homage to the original with every element present but in fork friendly form Some folks even say this twist makes them like BLTs more than the sandwich

Seasonal Adaptations

Switch tomatoes for chopped roasted red peppers in colder months Substitute baby spinach for lettuce when you want a deeper green touch Add diced cucumber in the summer for a refreshing crunch

Success Stories

Last Labor Day we made three batches of BLT macaroni salad and every bowl came back empty Cousins now ask for the recipe every year It is a true crowd pleaser

Freezer Meal Conversion

If you want to get ahead for busy weeks cook and cool the pasta fry and crumble the bacon and whisk together the dressing Then freeze these parts separately Thaw in the fridge assemble with fresh lettuce and tomato right before serving for best texture

This BLT macaroni salad brings all the comfort and fun of the beloved sandwich in a bowl Ready ahead and gone in a flash at every picnic or weeknight meal

Common Recipe Questions

→ How can I keep the salad creamy when serving later?

Mix in extra mayo or a splash of milk before serving to restore creaminess after refrigeration.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, prepare ahead but add lettuce just before serving for best texture and freshness.

→ What pasta shapes work well besides elbow macaroni?

Rotini or bowtie pasta are great alternatives, holding the creamy dressing and mix-ins well.

→ What additions can make this salad richer?

Add diced avocado or chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra creaminess and flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this salad lighter?

Use light mayonnaise or substitute Greek yogurt for a lower-fat dressing option.