Bacon, lettuce, and tomato combine to make an iconic sandwich, but if you replace the bread with pasta, you'll have a new way to enjoy its signature taste.

Short, spiraled noodles like rotini and fusilli work best for BLT pasta salad. While only bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes are required, there's plenty of room for creativity.

You can combine your BLT salad with traditional mayo, or for a healthier alternative, use half mayonnaise and half plain Greek yogurt.

Try adding a chopped chipotle in adobo with some lime juice, garlic powder, and a bit of sea salt for a smokier, spicier mayo.

If you prefer to avoid chili peppers, roast garlic in the oven, then crush the cloves into the mayonnaise with sea salt and a bit of lemon juice.

Avocado is a popular add-on to a typical BLT sandwich, and it fits in just as well with the pasta salad version — especially when combined with chipotle mayonnaise.

Some red onion adds depth and acidity to the bacon's savory flavor. Grated sharp cheddar cheese pairs perfectly, and cotija or queso fresco might be better with chipotle mayo.

As for seasonings, sea salt will help bring out any flavor in the salad, and onion and garlic powders also work well. Spice it up with some red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices.