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BLT Macaroni Salad

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This creamy, tangy, and crunchy BLT Macaroni Salad combines all the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich—crispy turkey bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp lettuce—with tender elbow macaroni and a rich dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

8 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked

8 slices turkey bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce

1/4 cup chopped green onions

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup sour cream

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tsp honey

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  2. Add 8 oz elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 7–8 minutes.

  3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

  1. Arrange 8 slices of turkey bacon on a baking sheet.

  2. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes or until crispy, turning halfway through.

  3. Remove and let cool, then crumble into small pieces.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together:

    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

    • 1/2 cup sour cream

    • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

    • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

    • 1 tsp honey

    • Salt and pepper to taste

  2. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

  1. To the bowl of dressing, add:

    • Cooked and cooled macaroni

    • Crumbled turkey bacon

    • Halved cherry tomatoes

    • Chopped lettuce

    • Chopped green onions

    • Chopped parsley

  2. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

  2. Stir before serving. If the salad seems dry, add a splash of milk or a tablespoon of mayo to refresh the texture.

  3. Serve cold and enjoy!

Notes

  • Turkey Bacon Tip: Baking yields a perfectly crispy texture without extra grease.

  • Pasta Cooling Tip: Rinsing pasta under cold water stops cooking immediately and keeps it firm.

  • Serving Tip: Add lettuce right before serving if making the salad ahead to maintain its crunch.

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

  • Flavor Boost: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or extra herbs can brighten the flavor if needed.

  • Add-ins: Try shredded cheddar, avocado, or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/blt-macaroni-salad-2/