BLT BOW-TIE PASTA SALAD

BLT Bow-Tie Pasta Salad image

Provided by Mary Lee

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 box (12oz - 16 oz) bow tie pasta cooked and drained (you can use med shell pasta in place of bow ties)
2/3 bottle Hormel bacon bits
10-12 ripe cherry tomatoes halved
3 c shredded lettuce "or" 1/2 head lettuce chopped small
1/4 c diced red onion
1 - 1 1/2 c Hidden Valley ranch dressing
salt / pepper to taste
OPTIONAL:
1/2 c black olive slices (optional)
1/3 c shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Steps:

1. In large salad bowl add drained bow tie pasta and all ingredients except for lettuce. Mix and toss well. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Add lettuce to salad just before serving ( you can add it sooner but its better to wait just before serving time especially if you are using the shredded lettuce ... you be the judge.)
2. Suggestion: You can use 1 cup Miracle whip w/3tbs sour cream in place of the Hidden Valley Ranch dressing. Optional: black olives slices Optional: shredded cheddar cheese garnish (approx 1/3 cup)