Nothing screams summer quite like this pasta salad recipe.

Directions

Cook pasta in boiling salted water according to package directions; drain.

Rinse with cold water; drain and cool.

Creamy BLT Pasta Salad

Credit: Blaine Moats

Meanwhile, in a 12-inch skillet cook bacon over medium heat until crisp.

Drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tsp.

Add garlic to reserved drippings.

Cook and stir 1 minute or until golden and fragrant.

Add pasta, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese to dressing; toss to coat.

If needed, stir in additional milk to reach desired creaminess.

If desired, sprinkle with additional chives.

To Make Ahead

Transfer dressing to a small airtight container.

In a large airtight container combine pasta, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.

Store in refrigerator up to 24 hours.

To serve, combine salad ingredients and dressing as directed.

2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.