Bacon, Basil, and Tomato Pasta Salad (BB & T)

I grow a backyard garden and my tomatoes are plentiful, so I’m constantly finding ways to use fresh tomatoes. My go to uses for tomatoes are Bacon and Tomato Sandwiches, Caprese Salad,  and Tomatoes and Cottage Cheese. But every once in a while I venture out and that is how this BB & T (Bacon, Basil, and Tomato) pasta Salad came to be.
 
Start off by cooking up 8 ounces of bowtie pasta according to package directions. While the pasta is cooking dice 2 medium tomatoes and put in the bottom of the serving bowl. Add 2 Tbs chopped fresh basil.

Meanwhile cook up 4 slices of bacon and crumble it. I like to cook an entire package of bacon on the grill and then store the bacon in the refrigerator or freezer for quick sandwiches and salads (but that’s another post).

Add the pasta and crumbled bacon to the bowl with the tomatoes and basil.

Next make the simplest dressing by combining 2 Tbs mayonnaise and 1 Tbs white vinegar. Add a little salt and pepper to taste.

Add the dressing and gently stir to coat all the bits and bobs. Save some extra bacon and basil for garnish.

Bacon, Basil and Tomato Pasta Salad (4 main dishes, 8 side dishes)

8 oz bowtie pasta, cooked according to package directions
2 medium tomatoes, diced
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 Tbs chopped fresh basil
Dressing
2 Tbs mayonnaise
1 Tbs white vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
 
Mix mayonnaise and vinegar together. Place cooked pasta, tomatoes, bacon, and basil in medium bowl. Add dressing and gently stir until pasta and tomatoes are coated. Garnish with extra basil and bacon.