BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado

This BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado is a delightful dish that combines the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with the satisfying texture of pasta. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or as a light meal any time of year. The creaminess of the dressing pairs beautifully with fresh tomatoes and creamy avocado, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with vibrant tomatoes, arugula, and avocado, this salad is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side dish at picnics or serve it as a main course for lunch. It’s great cold or at room temperature.
• Creamy Dressing: The homemade Ranch-style dressing made from Greek yogurt and mayonnaise adds a rich flavor without being overly heavy.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this salad your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather these essential tools to streamline your cooking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking bacon (or chicken) evenly and getting that desired crispness.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining all ingredients without mess.
• Small bowl: Useful for mixing the dressing ingredients perfectly before adding them to the salad.

Ingredients

To make this delicious BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta Salad

• 1 pound short pasta noodles (such as shells, farfalle, cavatappi)
• 1 pound chicken (or turkey) bacon
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
• 2 cups arugula leaves
• 1 avocado (chopped)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (low-fat or full-fat)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced chives
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced flat leaf parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al denté. Rinse under cool water and drain well. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bacon

While the pasta is cooking, chop the chicken bacon into 1/2 pieces. Cook in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken bacon, cherry tomatoes, arugula, avocado, and red onion to the bowl with pasta.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, white vinegar, chives, garlic powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add milk or water gradually until desired thickness.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together. Taste for seasoning adjustments if needed. Serve chilled for best flavor.

Enjoy your vibrant BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado at your next gathering!

How to Serve BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado

Serving BLT pasta salad with avocado can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or casual dinners.

As a Standalone Dish

• This pasta salad can be served as a light lunch or dinner option, especially on warm days when you crave something refreshing.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pairing the salad with grilled chicken adds protein and complements the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Alongside Garlic Bread

• Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting side that balances the freshness of the salad.

As Part of a Picnic Spread

• This salad is ideal for picnics, providing a hearty yet refreshing option that travels well.

With Fresh Fruit Salad

• A sweet fruit salad can provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the pasta salad.

How to Perfect BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado

To create an outstanding BLT pasta salad with avocado, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and ripe avocados enhance flavor and texture significantly.
• Cook pasta al dente: Ensure your pasta retains some firmness; it will absorb flavors better and hold up in the salad.
• Chill before serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust dressing consistency: If your dressing is too thick, thin it out with a splash of milk or broth for easier mixing.
• Add herbs wisely: Fresh herbs like chives and parsley add brightness; don’t skip these for an extra flavor boost.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to include additional veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado

Pairing side dishes with your BLT pasta salad with avocado can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp: Tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter provide a delicious seafood option that complements the salad well.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a colorful appetizer.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add smoky flavors that pair nicely with the creamy pasta salad.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers additional nutrients while keeping the meal balanced.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, which works well against the richness of the pasta dish.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide comfort and heartiness alongside the fresh salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using overcooked pasta – Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture. Always cook the pasta until al denté for the best results.
• Skipping the rinsing step – Not rinsing the pasta after cooking can lead to sticking. Rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking process and keep the noodles separated.
• Adding warm ingredients – Mixing warm ingredients like cooked bacon into the salad can wilt the fresh vegetables, especially arugula. Allow all components to cool before combining them.
• Neglecting seasoning – Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always sample your dish before serving and add salt, pepper, or more dressing as needed.
• Overdressing the salad – Adding too much dressing can overpower the other flavors. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any leftover dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado

• Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the avocado and dressing.
• If necessary, freeze without any fresh ingredients for up to one month; add fresh items upon thawing.

Reheating BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad in a baking dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes, but this is not typically recommended as it may alter textures.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between each interval. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado.

Can I customize my BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like shells, farfalle, or cavatappi are ideal for holding onto the dressing and other ingredients.

How do I make a vegan version of BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado?

You can replace bacon with crispy roasted chickpeas or tempeh and use a plant-based mayo substitute for the dressing.

Can I prepare BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving time.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Pasta Salad with Avocado is not only creamy and delicious but also a versatile dish that you can easily customize according to your preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, potluck, or enjoying it as a light meal at home, this salad is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavors!