B.L.T. Caesar Macaroni Salad

A bold twist on a classic: crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy Caesar dressing tossed with tender pasta.

This B.L.T. Caesar Macaroni Salad combines all the beloved flavors of a classic B.L.T. sandwich and creamy Caesar salad into one satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or meal prep, this hearty salad delivers a delicious balance of healthy fats and complex carbohydrates in every bite.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Cook pasta, prepare dressing, and chop ingredients up to 1 day ahead.

• Store each component separately in the refrigerator.

• Combine pasta with dressing, tomatoes, and bacon up to 4 hours ahead.

• Add lettuce just before serving to maintain crispness.

Variations:

• Protein Boost: Add 2 cups diced grilled chicken or 1 can of drained white beans

• Vegetarian Version: Omit bacon and add ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds

• Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta

• Greek Twist: Add ½ cup crumbled feta cheese and ¼ cup sliced kalamata olives

Storage Information:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• The lettuce will soften over time, but will still be delicious.

• If making specifically for leftovers, reserve some of the lettuce and croutons to add fresh when serving.

Perfect Pairings:

• Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish for a complete meal

• Pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light lager

• For dessert, follow with something light like fresh berries with a touch of whipped cream

Ingredients

For the Pasta Base:

• 8 oz (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni or small shell pasta

• 1 tablespoon sea salt (for pasta water)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Caesar Dressing:

(original Homemade Caesar Dressing post)

yields approximately 1 cup (you may want to double if you like lots of dressing—like me!)

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise

• 3 tablespoons sour cream

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed

• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 anchovy fillets, minced (or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste) - optional

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• Sea salt to taste (if needed after adding the Parmesan)

For the BLT Components:

• 8 strips bacon, cooked crisp and roughly chopped

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (about 2 cups)

• 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup croutons (Homemade Pan-Seared Croutons)

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• Additional crumbled bacon

• Pan charred lemon wedges, optional

• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon salt.

2. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).

3. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process.

4. Toss pasta with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Caesar Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy (if using).

2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

4. Cover and refrigerate while preparing other ingredients.

3. Cook the Bacon

1. Line a large plate with paper towels.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon strips until crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side.

3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.

4. Once cool, crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces.

4. Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta and half of the prepared Caesar dressing. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Add cherry tomatoes and three-quarters of the bacon crumbles. Mix gently.

3. If serving immediately, add the romaine lettuce, the croutons, the remaining dressing, and toss gently to combine.

4. If preparing ahead of time, refrigerate the pasta mixture separately from the lettuce and the croutons, and combine just before serving.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl.

2. Sprinkle with remaining bacon crumbles, additional grated Parmesan cheese, lemon wedges, and chopped parsley.

3. Drizzle with additional dressing, if you are a dressing lover—like me!

4. Finish with freshly ground black pepper.

5. Serve chilled.

Enjoy this perfect fusion of two classic favorites that combines the best of both worlds: the smoky, crunchy elements of a BLT sandwich and the bold, savory flavors of Caesar salad, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal!

xoxoxo!

~ Bek