Quinoa Pasta BLT Salad

This is a slightly healthier version of a BLT pasta salad. The quinoa pasta adds protein and is a healthier choice. A pound of cooked and drained bacon can be substituted for the real bacon bits for special occasions or if unconcerned about the fat grams!

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Calories: 374 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1 large tomato, seeded and chopped
• 1 cucumber, seeded and chopped
• 1 (8 ounce) package quinoa shells pasta
• ¾ cup light creamy salad dressing (such as Miracle Whip Light®)
• ¾ cup bacon ranch dressing
• 3 green onions, trimmed and chopped
• 1 (3 ounce) can real bacon bits

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Stir in shells and return to a boil. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 6 minutes. Drain. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until cool, about 20 minutes.

Step 2

Combine creamy salad dressing and bacon ranch dressing in a large bowl. Mix in cooled pasta, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, green onions, and bacon bits. Refrigerate until serving.