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Creamy Kid-Approved BLT Pasta Salad Easy School Lunchbox Recipe

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A quick and easy creamy BLT pasta salad perfect for school lunchboxes, featuring crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and a light homemade dressing that kids love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) rotini or elbow macaroni
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped finely
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini or elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Drain well and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 6 slices of bacon and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Wash and halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes. Chop 2 cups of romaine lettuce finely. Set aside.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and keep the salad cool.

Notes

Rinse pasta with cold water after cooking to prevent sticking and sogginess. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. Adjust dressing thickness by adding milk or more mayo/sour cream as needed. Use turkey bacon or gluten-free pasta for dietary adaptations.

Nutrition

Keywords: BLT pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, kid-friendly lunch, school lunch recipe, easy pasta salad, bacon pasta salad

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/creamy-kid-approved-blt-pasta-salad-easy-school-lunchbox-recipe/