This one’s a go-to when you want something fast, satisfying, and totally plant-based without skimping on flavor.
Let’s get into it!
🍽️ Servings & Time
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
🧡 Why I Love This Recip
I made this once with leftover pasta and tempeh bacon—and now it’s on regular rotation. It hits that craving for comfort food but still feels super fresh. Here’s what makes it a winner:
- The vegan bacon brings big smoky, salty vibes
- The dressing is creamy but dairy-free
- It holds up great in the fridge
- You can eat it warm, cold, or right out of the bowl standing at the counter (yup, I do)
🧬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Salt and smoke = bold flavor: Vegan bacon adds umami and that satisfying “sizzle” flavor thanks to smoked paprika and soy sauce.
- Fat and acid in balance: The dairy-free mayo and tangy vinegar help coat the pasta without making it too heavy.
- Pasta texture matters: Short pasta like rotini or shells grabs onto dressing and mix-ins better.
🧂 What You’ll Need
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup vegan mayo
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt + pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
- 4–6 strips vegan bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish
🛠️ Tools You’ll Need
- Medium pot for boiling pasta
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet (for cooking vegan bacon)
- Knife + cutting board
- Strainer
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Gluten-free? Use GF pasta.
- No vegan bacon? Try crispy smoked tofu or coconut bacon.
- Add-ins: Avocado, red onion, or a handful of sweet corn.
- Dressing swap: A tahini-lemon blend works too.
⏳ Make Ahead Tip
- Make the dressing and store it in the fridge up to 3 days ahead.
- Cook the pasta and bacon the night before and keep separate until ready to mix.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil the pasta
Cook your pasta in salted water until just al dente. Don’t overcook—it’ll soak up the dressing and soften a bit more.
2. Cook the vegan bacon
While pasta cooks, crisp up the vegan bacon in a hot skillet. Once it’s crispy, set aside and let it cool before chopping.
3. Chop the mix-ins
Slice your cherry tomatoes and chop your romaine into small shreds. Cut cooled vegan bacon into bite-sized pieces.
4. Make the dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the vegan mayo, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix it all together
Add drained pasta, chopped bacon, tomatoes, and romaine into the bowl with the dressing. Toss until everything’s coated.
6. Garnish and serve
Top with chopped herbs if using. Serve warm or cold—both work great!
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Add a fresh splash of vinegar or a spoon of mayo before serving leftovers
- Best eaten cold or room temp—not great for reheating
💡 Pro Tips
- Salt your pasta water—it’s the only chance to season it
- Crisp the bacon really well so it stays crunchy even in the dressing
- Chill your dressing while the pasta cooks—it thickens a bit and coats better
- Add lettuce just before serving if prepping ahead
- Make extra—it’s better the next day
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta: it’ll turn mushy once mixed
- Not seasoning the dressing: bland dressing = bland salad
- Adding lettuce too early: it’ll wilt fast in the fridge
🥗 What to Serve With
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Sliced avocado with lime
- A sparkling lemonade or iced tea
- A simple cucumber salad
🧠 Meal Plan Ideas
- Pack it for lunch with crackers or fruit
- Serve with BBQ tofu for dinner
- Toss in a mason jar for a road trip meal
- Pair with veggie kebabs for a cookout
❓ FAQ
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta.
Can I use regular mayo?
Sure, if you’re not vegan.
What’s the best vegan bacon?
Tempeh bacon, store-bought brands like Lightlife, or even homemade mushroom bacon!
Can I make it ahead?
Yes—just add the lettuce right before serving.
👋 Wrap-Up
This vegan BLT pasta salad is your next easy win. It’s bold, creamy, and super satisfying—and you don’t need to miss bacon to love it. If you make it, leave a comment and tell me how it went (and if you added anything fun)! 💬👇