Description

This BLT Pasta Salad with Chickpea Pasta combines smoky turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and protein-rich chickpea pasta with fresh romaine lettuce and cherry tomatoes. Tossed in a tangy, natural dressing, this vibrant salad is perfect for a wholesome lunch, picnic, or side dish, offering a fresh and healthy twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

8 ounces chickpea pasta
6 slices smoked turkey bacon

Vegetables and Fresh Ingredients

3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4 ounces plant-based cheese, diced or crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Dressing

1/3 cup natural mayonnaise
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon natural mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Cook the Chickpea Pasta: Boil the chickpea pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
Prepare the Turkey Bacon: In a hot pan, cook the smoked turkey bacon until golden and slightly crunchy. Drain excess fat on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Chop the Fresh Ingredients: Wash and chop romaine lettuce, halve cherry tomatoes, and dice or crumble the plant-based cheese for easy mixing.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together natural mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, natural mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine Everything: In a large bowl, toss the cooled chickpea pasta, turkey bacon pieces, lettuce, tomatoes, and plant-based cheese. Pour dressing over and gently toss to coat evenly.
Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top, give a final gentle toss, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Rinse pasta after cooking to cool it quickly and prevent sticking or mushiness.
Cook bacon to preferred crispiness, whether chewy or crunchy.
Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for juiciness and bright flavor contrast.
Chill salad before serving to enhance taste and texture.
Adjust dressing thickness with a splash of water or extra apple cider vinegar if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: BLT Pasta Salad, Chickpea Pasta, Turkey Bacon Salad, Plant-based Cheese Salad, Protein Salad, Gluten Free Salad