BLT Avocado Pasta Salad combines the timeless BLT sandwich with creamy avocado and pasta for a fresh twist on a classic favorite. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at your next get-together.
Rotini pasta serves as the hearty base, soaking up the creamy dressing while providing a delightful chewiness. Bacon adds a smoky, savory crunch that’s irresistible. Cherry tomatoes bring a sweet, juicy burst of flavor, complementing the other ingredients beautifully. Avocados add creaminess and richness, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and lemon juice. The mayonnaise forms the creamy dressing that ties everything together, enhanced by the lemon juice for a zesty kick. Finally, fresh basil infuses the dish with a fragrant, herby aroma, while salt and pepper bring all the flavors to life.
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It's also a great side dish at barbecues or picnics. Serve it on a bed of fresh greens for added color and crunch.
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt your water generously; it’s your only chance to season the pasta itself. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set it aside to cool. This pasta is the foundation of your salad, so you want it just right.
While the pasta cools, cook your bacon until it's crispy. I like to do this in the oven for even cooking, but a skillet works just as well. Once it's cooked, crumble it into bite-sized pieces. The crispy bacon adds a wonderful texture and salty flavor.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced avocados. Be gentle with the avocados; you want them to stay in nice chunks.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chopped basil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This dressing should be creamy and tangy, with a bright herbaceousness from the basil. Pour it over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine, making sure every bit is coated.
Transfer the salad to the fridge and let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together, making it even tastier.
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