Crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy dressing combine in a fresh pasta medley perfect for gatherings.
# What you'll need:
→ Pasta
01 - 10 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
→ Bacon
02 - 7 oz streaky bacon, diced
→ Vegetables
03 - 7 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 3.5 oz romaine lettuce, chopped
05 - 1 small red onion, finely diced
06 - 1 avocado, diced (optional)
→ Dressing
07 - ½ cup mayonnaise
08 - ¼ cup sour cream
09 - 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
10 - 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
11 - 1 garlic clove, minced
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
13 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley
# Method:
01 - Boil short pasta in a large pot of salted water following package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook diced bacon until golden and crispy, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
04 - In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine, diced red onion, avocado if using, and cooked bacon.
05 - Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
06 - Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
