Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad

Let’s be real: sometimes a classic BLT sandwich just isn’t enough. You’re craving all that glorious, crunchy, savory flavor, but you want something a little more substantial for a summer potluck or a easy weeknight dinner. That’s exactly how this Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad was born in my kitchen. It takes everything you adore about the iconic sandwich—the smoky bacon, the juicy tomatoes, the crisp lettuce—and tosses it with tender pasta for a dish that’s a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re navigating dietary restrictions or simply looking for a fresh twist on a favorite, this salad is here to deliver a serious dose of satisfaction without any of the fuss.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Dairy Free Pasta Salad

This isn’t just another pasta salad. It’s a solution for when you need a meal that’s both incredibly tasty and wonderfully simple. Here’s why it’s about to become a staple in your recipe rotation:

• Weeknight Warrior: Comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight.
• Surprisingly Creamy Without the Dairy: The secret’s in the dressing! A simple, tangy mayo-based sauce coats every bite beautifully.
• Meal-Prep Magic: It holds up beautifully in the fridge, so you can make it ahead for lunches or a stress-free gathering.
• Totally Customizable: Add some avocado, swap in a different gluten-free pasta, or throw in some grilled chicken to make it your own.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this simple yet fantastic dish. The beauty is in the quality of these core ingredients :

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• 1 pound gluten-free pasta (like rotini or penne)
• 12 ounces bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

For the Dairy-Free Dressing:

• 1 cup dairy-free mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Let’s Make This Delicious Salad!

Follow these simple steps for a perfect pasta salad every single time.

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your gluten-free pasta according to the package directions. Be careful not to overcook it! Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep the pasta from getting mushy.
2. Whisk the Dressing: While the pasta cooks, whisk together the dairy-free mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Want it tangier? Add a splash more vinegar!
3. Combine & Toss: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce. Pour the dressing over everything.
4. Gently Mix: Toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated in that creamy, smoky dressing.
5. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle. Then, dish it up and enjoy!

My Go-To Equipment

You don’t need any fancy tools for this recipe! A few basics will do the trick:

• A large pot for boiling the pasta
• A large mixing bowl for combining all the ingredients
• A trusty skillet for cooking the bacon to crispy perfection
• A sharp knife and cutting board

Tips, Tricks, and Fun Variations

I’ve made this salad more times than I can count, and here’s what I’ve learned to make it foolproof and fun.

• Pasta Perfection: Gluten-free pasta can be delicate. Always rinse it with cold water after draining to prevent it from sticking together and becoming gummy.
• Keep it Crisp: If you’re making this ahead of time, consider adding the chopped romaine lettuce just before serving to keep it from wilting.
• Bacon Boost: For an even deeper smoky flavor, try saving a tablespoon of the bacon grease and whisking it right into the dressing. It’s a game-changer!
• Make it a Meal: Turn this side dish into a main course by adding some grilled lemon herb chicken or a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for a plant-based protein punch.

This recipe is a testament to the fact that some of the best dishes come from simple, honest ingredients. It reminds me of a potluck I brought it to last summer—it was the first bowl to be emptied, and I had several people (who aren’t even gluten-free!) ask for the recipe. That’s the power of a good BLT!

The Perfect Pairings

This pasta salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it up as a stellar side dish at your next barbecue alongside some juicy grilled burgers. For a lighter meal, it’s wonderful with a simple grilled chicken breast or a cup of soup. It’s also hearty enough to be the main event all on its own!

Nutrition Information

This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

Calories: 385kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 480mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g

Your Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad Questions, Answered!

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Prepare the salad as directed, but for the crispiest lettuce, I recommend adding it only an hour or two before serving. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What’s the best gluten-free pasta to use for a pasta salad?

I find that shapes like rotini, penne, or fusilli work best because their nooks and crannies hold onto the dressing beautifully. Brands like Barilla or Jovial are reliable choices that hold their texture well after cooling.

I don’t have dairy-free mayo. What can I use?

If you don’t need the recipe to be dairy-free, regular mayonnaise works perfectly. For a different twist, you could also use a vinaigrette, but the creamy mayo base is what really gives it that classic BLT flavor.

How should I store the leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to give it a quick stir and perhaps a tiny drizzle of fresh mayo or vinegar before serving again.

I hope this Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. It’s proof that cooking for dietary needs doesn’t mean sacrificing an ounce of flavor. If you’re looking for another fantastic gluten-free side, you have to try this creamy dairy-free mashed potato recipe. Now, go forth and create something delicious!