BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe

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This BLT Macaroni Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic BLT sandwich and traditional macaroni salad. Featuring crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and baby spinach, this salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a hearty side dish during the summer months.

Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 8 pieces of bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
  • 1 cup seeded and diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup roughly chopped baby spinach

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Macaroni:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Prepare the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine the Ingredients:
    • To the cooled macaroni, add the crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and chopped baby spinach.
    • Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and gently toss to coat evenly. Make sure all the ingredients are well mixed and the dressing is evenly distributed.
  4. Chill and Serve:
    • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. This chilling time helps the pasta absorb the dressing and the flavors to intensify.
    • Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Tips:

  • Bacon Tip: For extra flavor, cook the bacon until extra crispy. This texture will hold up better when mixed into the salad.
  • Serving Suggestions: This salad is perfect as a side dish for BBQs, picnics, or alongside your favorite grilled meats.
  • Variations: Consider adding a few tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for an extra burst of freshness.

Conclusion:

This BLT Macaroni Salad is a delightful combination of classic flavors that bring a nostalgic yet fresh twist to any meal. It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the creamy, savory, and satisfying tastes of this summertime favorite!