If you’ve never had an Avocado BLT Pasta Salad on a summer day, are you even living your best life? This salad is a love letter to backyard BBQs, easy weeknight dinners, and anyone who wants to eat more greens (but still wants bacon, because duh). We’re talking creamy avocado, smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and tender pasta—all together in a bowl of pure joy. And yes, it’s as irresistible as it sounds.
Let’s get into the details, swaps, and secrets behind what could be your new favorite pasta salad.
Why Avocado BLT Pasta Salad Deserves a Spot on Your Table
Avocado BLT pasta salad brings together everything you love about a classic BLT sandwich—bacon, lettuce, and tomato—but in a fun, crowd-pleasing, and healthier way. The addition of avocado is a total game-changer, adding creamy texture, healthy fats, and fresh flavor. Whether you need a dish for a potluck, meal prep, or just want to mix up your lunch routine, this pasta salad checks every box.
The Ultimate Ingredient List
Before we get too hungry, here’s what you’ll need to create this Avocado BLT pasta salad masterpiece:
- Pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie—your call)
- Avocado (ripe but not mushy)
- Bacon (the crispier, the better)
- Lettuce (romaine or iceberg for crunch)
- Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Red onion (optional, for zing)
- Fresh herbs (chives or parsley for garnish)
- Dressing: A creamy base like Greek yogurt or mayo, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- Sweet corn
- Shredded cheese
- Chopped hard-boiled egg
- Sliced radishes
- Cucumber
FYI: You can use gluten-free pasta to keep it celiac-friendly, or swap in turkey bacon for a lighter twist.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Avocado BLT Pasta Salad
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil your pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water (so it stops cooking and doesn’t get gummy).
2. Crisp the Bacon
- Fry bacon strips in a skillet until crisp.
- Transfer to a paper towel to drain, then chop.
3. Prep the Veggies
- Halve cherry tomatoes, dice the avocado, and shred or chop your lettuce.
- If using, thinly slice red onion.
4. Mix the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk Greek yogurt or mayo with lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, toss pasta with dressing until coated.
- Gently fold in tomatoes, bacon, avocado, lettuce, and onions.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs.
6. Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Right before serving, give it a gentle toss. (Add more dressing or a squeeze of lemon if needed.)
Nutrition Table: What’s in Every Bite?
| Ingredient | Calories | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pasta (2 cups dry) | 400 | 84 | 14 | 2 |
| Avocado (1 large) | 250 | 12 | 3 | 23 |
| Bacon (6 slices) | 270 | 0 | 18 | 21 |
| Lettuce (2 cups) | 15 | 3 | 1 | 0 |
| Tomatoes (1 cup) | 25 | 5 | 1 | 0 |
| Red onion (¼ cup) | 15 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Greek yogurt (½ cup) | 70 | 4 | 6 | 0 |
| Total (whole salad) | 1045 | 111 | 43 | 46 |
| Per Serving (1/4) | 261 | 28 | 11 | 12 |
Key Takeaways:
- Protein-packed: The bacon, pasta, and Greek yogurt boost the protein.
- Healthy fats: Creamy avocado is a heart-healthy fat source.
- Balanced: Not just a side dish—this is a meal.
- Customizable: Easily adjust for more veggies or less bacon (but why would you? 😏).
Why This BLT Pasta Salad Is a Game Changer
- Great for meal prep: Stays fresh in the fridge, especially if you add avocado right before serving.
- Perfect for gatherings: Everyone loves a classic BLT, but nobody misses the soggy bread here!
- Kid-friendly: Creamy, crunchy, and fun to eat.
- Summer-ready: Cool, fresh, and perfect for picnics or BBQs.
Side note: If you want to get extra, serve it in lettuce cups for the ultimate “salad in a salad” vibe. 🥗
Quick Tips & Common Mistakes
Tips for the Best Avocado BLT Pasta Salad
- Toss avocado in lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Don’t overdress—add a little at a time, then more as needed.
- Chill before serving for best texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes
- Using mushy avocado: You want firm cubes, not guacamole.
- Forgetting to rinse pasta: Sticky pasta = clumpy salad.
- Mixing in bacon too early: For max crunch, stir in bacon just before serving.
Real-Life Example: My Family’s BLT Salad Wars
Last summer, my cousin tried to claim her BLT pasta salad was “famous” at family cookouts. We had an unofficial taste test. Mine won (obviously) because the avocado kept everything creamy and fresh, and I used Greek yogurt for a tangy punch. The lesson? Don’t skip the avocado, and trust your gut on seasoning.
FAQ: Everything You Want to Know About Avocado BLT Pasta Salad
Q1: Can I make Avocado BLT pasta salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prep everything except the avocado and lettuce. Add those just before serving for max freshness.
Q2: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Absolutely. Bowtie, rotini, penne—anything bite-sized works.
Q3: What’s the best dressing?
A: Greek yogurt is healthy and creamy, but mayo or ranch work too.
Q4: Is it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version.
Q5: How long does it keep?
A: About 2–3 days in the fridge (add fresh avocado daily if possible).
BLT Pasta Salad Variations: Make It Your Own
- Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Try turkey bacon or veggie bacon for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Throw in some sweet corn for a summer twist.
- Swap lettuce for arugula or spinach for a peppery bite.
Serving & Storage
- Serve chilled—perfect for hot days.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Refresh leftovers with a squeeze of lemon and a splash of extra dressing.
External Links for More BLT Pasta Salad Inspiration
- Find creative BLT pasta salad variations at AllRecipes.
- For info on avocado nutrition, check out the California Avocado Commission.
Wrap-Up: Why You’ll Crave This Again and Again
Avocado BLT Pasta Salad is a little creamy, a little crunchy, a little smoky, and a lot satisfying. It’s the best of both worlds: fresh veggies, protein, and healthy fats all in one dish. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, feeding a crowd, or just need a salad that won’t bore you, this recipe is about to become your summer go-to.
Try it, remix it, and let me know your favorite twist in the comments! Tag your pics #BLTPastaSaladGoals so we can all get hungry together.
Go forth, eat well, and remember—bacon makes everything better. 😉
