BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado - Easy Recipe

There’s a magical dish that combines the crispy delight of bacon, the crunch of fresh lettuce, and the juiciness of tomatoes into a pasta salad that makes your taste buds dance. Imagine twirling al dente pasta around your fork, with creamy avocado joining the party. Welcome to the world of BLT pasta salad with avocado! This dish is not just a salad; it’s an experience that you’ll want to relish at every picnic, barbecue, or even as a cheeky midnight snack. For more inspiration, check out this Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe.

I remember the first time I made this wonder—my friends had gathered for our annual summer cookout. I realized I had forgotten to bring anything but my trusty noodle skills and some ripe avocados. They say necessity is the mother of invention, and boy, did I invent something spectacular that day! This BLT pasta salad with avocado quickly became the highlight of our feast, leaving everyone clamoring for seconds (and maybe thirds). Now, let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Ingredients for BLT pasta salad with avocado

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite shape like rotini or fusilli; they hold onto dressing beautifully.
• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum crispiness; nobody likes soggy bacon in their salads!
• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and color; opt for vibrant red ones for the best flavor.
• Romaine Lettuce: Freshly chopped romaine offers crunch and freshness that balance out the richness.
• Avocado: Ripe avocados bring creaminess; make sure they’re perfectly ripe but not mushy.
• Dressing: A blend of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper gives it a zesty kick; feel free to customize!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make BLT pasta salad with avocado

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.

Step 2: Crisp Up the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy—about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan, place on paper towels to absorb excess grease, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prep Your Veggies

While the bacon cooks, chop up your cherry tomatoes in half and slice your romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. For added flair (and flavor), dice your ripe avocado just before serving.

Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended; taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped bacon, tomatoes, romaine lettuce, and diced avocados. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently until everything is coated evenly.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Transfer the salad to serving bowls or plates. For an extra touch of elegance (or just because you can), sprinkle some extra bacon bits on top before serving!

You are now ready to impress at your next gathering or simply enjoy this delightful BLT pasta salad with avocado all by yourself—no judgment here! Just remember: sharing may be caring unless it comes between you and this delectable dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente while you fry the bacon to crispy perfection. Once both are ready, mix the ingredients and prepare the dressing to enhance those luscious flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients! Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option or add cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. You could even toss in some fresh spinach for added greenery and nutrients.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover BLT pasta salad with avocado in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To enjoy it warm, gently reheat on low heat while adding a splash of olive oil to maintain creaminess.

Sometimes I whip up this BLT pasta salad during summer BBQs, and it never fails to impress my friends who think I'm some sort of culinary wizard!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for BLT pasta salad with avocado?

To make a delicious BLT pasta salad with avocado, you will need cooked pasta, crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and fresh avocado. Additionally, include lettuce for that classic BLT crunch. For the dressing, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors. Feel free to adjust the proportions based on your taste preferences. This simple ingredient list ensures a flavorful dish that is perfect for picnics or potlucks. For more inspiration, check out this homemade Big Mac sauce recipe.

How long does it take to prepare BLT pasta salad with avocado?

Preparing a BLT pasta salad with avocado is quick and easy. It typically takes about 15 minutes to gather and chop all ingredients. If your pasta is already cooked and cooled, the assembly of the salad can be done in under 10 minutes. Overall, you can enjoy this refreshing dish in just 30 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

Can I make BLT pasta salad with avocado ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare BLT pasta salad with avocado ahead of time! This salad actually benefits from sitting in the refrigerator for a bit as the flavors meld together. However, it’s best to add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning. If you plan on making it in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours for optimal freshness.

What are some variations of BLT pasta salad with avocado?

You can easily customize your BLT pasta salad with avocado by adding other ingredients like cheese or different vegetables. Consider incorporating diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch. You might also swap bacon for grilled chicken or turkey for a leaner option. Experimenting with dressings can give it a unique twist; try using a balsamic vinaigrette instead of mayonnaise for a lighter flavor profile.

Conclusion for BLT pasta salad with avocado :

In conclusion, the BLT pasta salad with avocado is a delightful dish that combines classic flavors in a fresh way. The recipe emphasizes simplicity while allowing room for personalization based on your tastes and dietary requirements. With its ease of preparation and vibrant ingredients, this salad is perfect for any occasion—be it a family meal or a gathering with friends. Enjoy this tasty blend of bacon, lettuce, tomato, and creamy avocado today!