BLT Pasta Avocado Salad

BLT Pasta Salad with Bacon and Avocado is a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich. Combining al dente pasta with crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and fresh cherry tomatoes, this salad offers a hearty and fresh meal perfect for summer gatherings or a satisfying lunch.

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With simple ingredients and a flavorful dressing, this salad balances smoky bacon, tangy dressing, and fresh vegetables to create a satisfying dish that can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients

• Pasta
  • 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
• Bacon
  • 6 slices bacon
• Vegetables
  • 200 g (1 1/2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 large ripe avocado, diced
  • 80 g (3 cups) romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Dressing
  • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional Additions
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

2. While the pasta cooks, place the bacon in a skillet over medium heat.

Cook until crisp, turning occasionally, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, green onions, and most of the bacon (reserve a little for garnish).

Add the dressing and toss gently to coat.

5. Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado.

6. Transfer to a serving platter or bowl.

Garnish with the remaining bacon and optional herbs. Serve immediately, or chill for up to 2 hours for a colder salad.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To prevent the avocado from browning, add it just before serving. Cook the bacon until crisp to add a satisfying crunch. Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter or vegetarian option, substitute turkey bacon or plant-based bacon. Add grilled chicken for extra protein. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for added flavor.

Serviervorschläge

This salad is perfect as a main dish for lunch or a hearty side for summer cookouts and potlucks. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.

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This BLT Pasta Salad offers a wonderful combination of textures and flavors designed to please any table. Easy to make ahead and customize, it is a versatile recipe sure to become a favorite for warm-weather meals.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne hold the dressing well and blend nicely with the other ingredients.

→ How can I keep the avocado from browning?

Add the diced avocado just before serving and toss gently to maintain its fresh appearance and flavor.

→ Can I use a different type of bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon or plant-based bacon can be used for lighter or vegetarian-friendly variations.

→ Is it possible to prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can assemble most of the salad in advance but add avocado last to prevent discoloration. Chill for up to 2 hours before serving.

→ What are good optional additions to enhance flavor?

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives, grated Parmesan, or crumbled feta add extra taste and complexity to the dish.

→ How should the bacon be cooked for best results?

Cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 6–8 minutes, then drain on paper towels and chop before adding.