Taste Florida’s Best with This Refreshing Ranch BLT Pasta Salad Recipe

Florida’s sunny skies and warm weather call for light, refreshing dishes that can be enjoyed outdoors. Whether you're heading to a beachside picnic, a backyard barbecue, or just relaxing by the pool, the Ranch BLT Pasta Salad is a perfect dish that combines crisp, fresh ingredients with satisfying flavors. This Florida-inspired version takes the classic BLT and gives it a twist by adding the creamy, tangy taste of ranch dressing and the refreshing crunch of cool veggies, making it a go-to dish for any occasion under the Florida sun.

Photo bythissillygirlskitchen.com

A Taste of Florida in Every Bite

Imagine savoring the smoky, salty goodness of crispy bacon, mixed with the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and crunchy lettuce, all tied together with the smoothness of ranch dressing. This Ranch BLT Pasta Salad isn't just about flavor—it's about balance. The fresh veggies, combined with the savory pasta and bacon, create a dish that feels both hearty and refreshing, just what you need for a laid-back Florida day.

Florida is known for its fresh produce, so this salad showcases the best of it by using vine-ripened tomatoes and crisp romaine lettuce. It’s easy to make, travels well for beach picnics, and is a hit at any Florida gathering!

Recipe: Florida Style Ranch BLT Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 12 oz rotini or your favorite pasta
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, finely sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: avocado chunks or corn kernels for added Florida flavor

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta in salted water until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This step is essential for a chilled pasta salad.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta cools, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it. Chop the romaine lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
3. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, bacon, cherry tomatoes, romaine lettuce, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Dress It Up: Pour in the ranch dressing and toss everything together until well coated. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you're feeling adventurous, throw in some Florida flavors like avocado or fresh corn kernels for a little extra twist.
5. Chill and Serve: Garnish the salad with fresh parsley and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to cool down—a must for hot Florida afternoons!

The Perfect Dish for Florida Gatherings

The Ranch BLT Pasta Salad is perfect for any Florida event, whether it’s a beach day or a casual backyard cookout. It’s a crowd-pleaser with its mix of fresh ingredients, savory bacon, and creamy ranch. The balance of textures and flavors in each bite will remind you of the relaxed, fun-filled days of Florida living. Bring this to your next event, and it’ll be a guaranteed hit.

This dish pairs well with some grilled chicken or seafood, making it a versatile addition to any meal. You’ll find that it not only captures the flavors of the classic BLT but also adds a refreshing, Floridian twist that’s just right for the Sunshine State.

Sources:

Ranch BLT Pasta Salad | Let's Dish Recipes (letsdishrecipes.com)

Ranch BLT Pasta Salad Recipe (thissillygirlskitchen.com)

BLT Pasta Salad Recipe with Mayo and Ranch Dressing | Salty Side Dish