Name: BLT Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Chive Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz. mini farfalle pasta (or other small pasta like medium shells); ½ pound asparagus, tough ends removed then cut into 1” pieces; 1 cup frozen petite peas, thawed; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered; 4 cups roughly chopped romaine lettuce; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 8 oz. smoked turkey, cooked and chopped; ⅔ cup mayonnaise; ⅓ cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest (approx 1 lemon); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; ¾ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon sugar; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup chopped fresh chives (may substitute 1 tablespoon dried chives)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 51 reviews

If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and a creamy zing, the BLT Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Chive Dressing Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. This salad perfectly marries tender pasta, smoky turkey, crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy vegetables, all lovingly tossed in a luscious lemon chive dressing that adds the perfect tang and herbaceous punch. It’s a favorite crowd-pleaser that works beautifully for everything from backyard barbecues to family dinners, combining color, texture, and easy preparation into one irresistible bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with farfalle pasta forming the base layer, topped with sections of bright green peas, halved red cherry tomatoes, diced yellow bell peppers, and shredded green lettuce. In the center, there is a small mound of finely chopped brown bacon bits sprinkled with grated white cheese. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with lemon slices and extra cherry tomatoes scattered nearby, and a woman’s hand holding a wooden spoon is seen at the edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this BLT Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Chive Dressing Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the tender pasta that provides a satisfying base, to the smoky turkey adding savory depth, and the crisp vegetables that bring freshness and crunch. The dressing then ties everything together with a bright, creamy finish that’s both tangy and herbaceous.

12 oz. mini Farfalle pasta: Small bow-tie shapes hold onto the dressing wonderfully and add a fun texture.

1/2 pound asparagus: Adds a tender, slightly crisp bite and refreshing green color.
1 cup frozen petite peas: Sweet bursts of green that balance savory elements.
1 yellow bell pepper: Offers vibrant color and crunchy sweetness.

1 pint cherry tomatoes: Juicy and bright, they add freshness and a burst of acidity.
4 cups romaine lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, providing a cool contrast to the creamy dressing.
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory richness and a hint of nuttiness.

8 oz. smoked turkey: Brings smoky, savory flavor and protein to the salad.
2/3 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the dressing.
1/3 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
2 tbsp red wine vinegar: Provides acidity and depth.
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Delivers bright citrus tang to the dressing.
1 tbsp lemon zest: Adds aromatic citrus oils for extra zing.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a smooth, sharp flavor that balances richness.

3/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
1/2 tsp sugar: Balances acidity in the dressing.
1/2 tsp dried oregano, parsley, and pepper each: Infuses subtle herbal notes and mild spice.
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives: Offers a delicate oniony flavor that brightens the dressing.

How to Make BLT Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Chive Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Chive Dressing

Starting with the dressing is the trick to layering flavors beautifully. Whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, sugar, oregano, parsley, pepper, and fresh chives in a bowl until creamy and smooth. Chilling it for a bit helps those fresh lemon and herb flavors develop even more deeply, setting the tone for the whole salad.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Asparagus

Bring a salted pot of water to a boil and cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions, stopping just before al dente. In the last minute of cooking, toss in the chopped asparagus pieces so they soften slightly without losing their bite. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking, then drizzle with olive oil to keep things from sticking together as you prep the rest.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, quarter the cherry tomatoes, chop the yellow bell pepper, and roughly chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Thaw the petite peas fully and dry the lettuce well to avoid watering down the salad. Gathering these fresh, crisp veggies ahead helps keep the salad bright and refreshing.

Step 4: Prepare the Smoked Turkey

Chop the smoked turkey into small pieces so it’s evenly scattered throughout. For an extra flavor boost, sauté it lightly in a hot skillet with a little olive oil until the edges turn golden and fragrant. This step deepens the smoky notes and adds a subtle crispness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing.

Step 5: Assemble the Pasta Salad

Combine the cooled pasta and asparagus with peas, bell pepper, tomatoes, romaine, Parmesan, and smoked turkey in a large bowl. Pour over the chilled dressing and toss gently until every bite is coated in that vibrant, creamy goodness. Taste and add salt or pepper if you want a little more kick—extra pepper is my personal favorite.

Step 6: Prepare the Salad Ahead of Time

For gatherings, I like to assemble the pasta, veggies, and half the dressing ahead and refrigerate it. Keep the romaine, turkey, Parmesan, and remaining dressing separate to maintain freshness and texture. When ready to serve, toss everything together for a salad that tastes like it was made moments ago.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Before serving, combine the chilled components with the remaining dressing, toss gently, add a splash of extra lemon juice if desired, and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately, enjoying the crunch of fresh veggies, the creaminess of the dressing, and the smoky depth of the turkey in each bite.

How to Serve BLT Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Chive Dressing Recipe

The image shows a white bowl on a white marbled surface filled with a colorful layered salad. The bottom layer consists of green leafy spinach leaves and some shredded brown pieces, possibly sun-dried tomatoes. On top of the spinach, there's a portion of bright green peas on one side, yellow diced bell peppers at the front, and a small pile of chopped red tomatoes on the other side next to cooked bowtie pasta, which has a pale yellow color. A woman's hand is pouring creamy white dressing with herbs onto the salad from a clear glass jar. In the background, there are blurred halves of a lemon and some red cherry tomatoes on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A few extra fresh chives, a sprinkle of Parmesan shavings, or a twist of lemon zest right on top adds eye-catching color and bright flavor bursts. A few crispy bacon bits can also elevate the smoky theme, making your salad irresistible.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken breasts, roasted vegetables, or light sandwiches. It’s also a great companion to fresh fruit platters or corn on the cob for a summery feast that’s balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in a large, colorful bowl for parties or portion it into individual mason jars for picnics and lunches on the go. Layering the dressing separately in a small container lets guests toss their own bowls for the freshest crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover BLT Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Chive Dressing in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days. To keep the lettuce crisp, storing it separately and mixing it in just before serving works best. A little extra reserved dressing helps refresh the flavors when you enjoy leftovers later.

Freezing

This salad doesn’t freeze well because the mayonnaise dressing can separate and fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes lose their crunch. I recommend making fresh batches for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If it’s been refrigerated, letting it sit out for 10 minutes before serving helps bring back some softness and aroma. A quick toss with extra lemon juice or dressing revives the creaminess and brightness.

FAQs

Can I Make BLT Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?

Definitely! Making it ahead is one of the best things about this recipe. Just prepare the pasta and veggies, toss with half the dressing, and refrigerate. Keep the lettuce, turkey, and cheese separate to add fresh just before serving.

What Is the Best Pasta for BLT Pasta Salad?

I love mini farfalle because its shape really captures the dressing and holds the veggies well, but medium shells, rotini, or small penne are also great choices. Look for pastas with curves and ridges that cling to the dressing.

Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Smoked Turkey?

Yes! Grilled chicken, roasted turkey breast, or even bacon make delicious alternatives. Pick a protein with simple seasoning so the creamy lemon chive dressing shines through.

How Do I Keep the Lettuce Crisp?

Wash and dry your romaine thoroughly, then wait until last minute to add it to the salad. Adding lettuce too early can make it soggy from the dressing.

Can I Use Frozen Asparagus Instead of Fresh?

Fresh asparagus is ideal for flavor and texture, but frozen works in a pinch. Just cook it briefly according to package instructions and drain well before tossing into the salad.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say, this BLT Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Chive Dressing Recipe is a game changer for easy, flavorful meals. It’s fresh, bright, and satisfying, perfect for any occasion that calls for something both comforting and vibrant. I can’t recommend it enough — once you try it, it might just become your go-to pasta salad too!