Avocado BLT Pasta Salad

This Avocado BLT Pasta Salad is a must-have for summer gatherings. With its refreshing blend of flavors and textures, it captures all the best elements of a classic BLT while being completely gluten and dairy-free. Perfect as a side dish for BBQs or potlucks, this salad is also hearty enough to serve as a main course. The creamy dressing ties everything together, making it a delightful option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: Enjoy the delicious mix of creamy avocado, fresh veggies, and satisfying pasta.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a light lunch or a side dish at summer parties and picnics.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it easy to whip up on a busy day.
• Diet-Friendly: Free from gluten, dairy, and top allergens; can be customized to fit vegan diets.
• Make Ahead: This pasta salad tastes even better after chilling, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Avocado BLT Pasta Salad effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of the pasta to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for safely chopping vegetables and other ingredients with precision.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 12 oz box of gluten-free short pasta
• 1 avocado, cubed
• 1 12-oz package of cooked chicken bacon, crumbled
• 1 carton of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 heart of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
• 2/3 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp minced garlic (approx 2 cloves)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• optional: fresh chives for garnish

How to Make Avocado BLT Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Boil the gluten-free short pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Rinse with cold water and drain well. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bacon

While your pasta is cooking, prepare your chicken bacon:
* You can cook it in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until both sides are crisp.
* Alternatively, place aluminum foil on a cookie sheet. Lay the chicken bacon without overlapping on the foil. Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes until crisp.

Once cooked, lay it on a paper towel to absorb excess fat. After it cools slightly, crumble it into pieces and add it to the mixing bowl with pasta.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables

Wash and chop the romaine lettuce. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Add both ingredients to your large mixing bowl containing pasta and chicken bacon.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
* Combine finely chopped red onion, vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
* Adjust seasoning as needed. If too thick, thin with rice milk until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Combine Salad with Dressing

Dress your salad by starting with half of the dressing. Mix well while tossing so all ingredients are evenly coated. Add more dressing as needed based on preference.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

Mince fresh chives and cube your avocado. Top your salad with avocado pieces and chives before serving immediately. This salad can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled in the fridge. If refrigerated beforehand, consider reserving some dressing for freshness before serving.

Enjoy this delightful Avocado BLT Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

How to Serve Avocado BLT Pasta Salad

Avocado BLT Pasta Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want it as a main dish, side, or part of a picnic spread, these serving suggestions will help you make the most of this delicious salad.

As a Main Course

• This pasta salad can stand alone as a delightful main course. Pair it with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or turkey, for a heartier meal.

At Potlucks and BBQs

• Avocado BLT Pasta Salad is perfect for gatherings. Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it an attractive dish that guests will love.

As a Side Dish

• Serve this salad alongside grilled veggies or sandwiches for a balanced meal. The creamy dressing complements both meat and plant-based dishes well.

For Meal Prep

• This salad is great for meal prep! Divide it into individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week. Just add avocado fresh before eating for optimal flavor.

Enjoy It Cold or at Room Temperature

• This salad tastes fantastic cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for warm summer days. Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together.

How to Perfect Avocado BLT Pasta Salad

To ensure your Avocado BLT Pasta Salad is always a hit, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish to the next level.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use ripe avocados and fresh vegetables for the best taste and texture.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your gluten-free pasta is cooked al dente to maintain its structure in the salad.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency: If your dressing feels too thick, thin it out with a splash of vegetable broth or plant-based milk.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor profile of your salad.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to bring all flavors together beautifully.
• Serve Fresh: For maximum freshness, add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

Best Side Dishes for Avocado BLT Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Avocado BLT Pasta Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers are juicy and flavorful, making them a perfect protein pair.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and complement the creamy pasta salad nicely.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch alongside the pasta.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings summer vibes and pairs wonderfully with this dish.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa and veggies offer added nutrition and color to your meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances savory flavors while adding natural sweetness to your plate.
7. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad adds texture and complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for an excellent comforting side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Avocado BLT Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using Overcooked Pasta: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente. Overcooking can make the salad mushy and less enjoyable.
• Skipping the Rinsing Step: After boiling, rinse your pasta in cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it firm and prevents clumping.
• Not Seasoning the Dressing: Taste your dressing before mixing it in. A well-seasoned dressing enhances the flavors of the entire salad.
• Adding Ingredients Too Early: Wait until just before serving to add delicate ingredients like avocado. This keeps them fresh and vibrant.
• Ignoring Storage Tips: If you’re making this salad ahead of time, save some dressing for later. This prevents sogginess when it’s time to serve.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Avocado BLT Pasta Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it can affect the texture of the ingredients, especially avocado.

Reheating Avocado BLT Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, but be cautious with fresh ingredients.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30-second intervals until warmed through. Avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed. This helps maintain texture without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Avocado BLT Pasta Salad gluten-free?

This recipe uses gluten-free pasta, ensuring that those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a delicious meal without worry.

Can I customize my Avocado BLT Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber for extra crunch or switch up the dressing for different flavors.

How do I keep my avocado from browning?

To prevent browning, squeeze fresh lemon juice over cubed avocado before adding it to the salad.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Avocado BLT Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep. Just remember to store some dressing separately if you plan to keep it longer than a day.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply substitute traditional bacon with vegan bacon crumbles or even roasted chickpeas for added protein while keeping it plant-based.

Final Thoughts

The Avocado BLT Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s a versatile companion for any summer gathering or potluck. Its creamy texture and fresh ingredients make it appealing and satisfying whether served as an entrée or side dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or alternative proteins to suit your taste!