Introduction to BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings comfort and freshness to your table, you’ve found it with my BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch. This creamy masterpiece combines the beloved flavors of a classic BLT with the heartiness of pasta. Perfect for busy moms like me, this recipe serves as a quick solution for any hectic weeknight. Plus, it’s great for impressing family and friends at your next gathering! With vibrant veggies and crispy bacon, this dish is not only satisfying but also delightful to the eyes.
Why You’ll Love This BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch
This BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch is a game-changer in my kitchen. It marries convenience with flavor, making meal prep a breeze on busy days. The creamy avocado ranch dressing hugs the pasta perfectly, creating a rich taste without the fuss. Plus, it’s a delightful way to sneak in fresh veggies, keeping everyone happy. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again, and it’s truly a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch
Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch. Each component brings something special to the table, so let’s dive in:
- Short Pasta: Using rotini or penne gives great shape and texture to hold the creamy dressing.
- Crispy Bacon: Who can resist the savory crunch of crispy bacon? It adds a nice, smoky flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These juicy gems burst with sweetness and vibrant color; they brighten up any dish!
- Lettuce: Whether you choose romaine or iceberg, it adds a fresh crunch and a pop of green.
- Avocado: Diced for the salad and blended for the dressing, it provides creaminess and healthy fats.
- Red Onion: A little zing from thinly sliced red onion adds depth and sharpness to every bite.
- Greek Yogurt: This is the secret to making the dressing creamy yet light. A healthier alternative to sour cream!
- Mayonnaise: Just a dab enhances the creaminess of the dressing and adds a touch of richness.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity brings brightness and balances out the creaminess.
- Garlic Powder: This adds a subtle kick without the fuss of fresh garlic. Simple and effective!
- Salt and Black Pepper: Don’t forget to season! These enhance all the flavors harmoniously.
Feel free to get creative! If you have a favorite pasta or a pantry staple that needs using up, swap it in. Each ingredient works together to create this amazing dish. You’ll find the measurements at the end of the article, available for printing for your convenience.
How to Make BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making your BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch! This dish is simple and quick, perfect for a weekday meal. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, creamy pasta dish in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, toss in your short pasta. I love using rotini because its spirals catch the dressing beautifully! Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente.
Once cooked, drain it in a colander and give it a quick rinse under cold water. This stops the pasta from cooking further and keeps it nice and firm. Trust me, you want that bite in your dish!
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While your pasta cools, let’s whip up that creamy dressing. Grab your blender or food processor—this step is easy and mess-free!
In the blender, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of our BLT Pasta: creamy, dreamy, and downright delicious!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped lettuce, sliced red onion, and diced avocado. The colors should brighten your day, and the aromas will make your kitchen sing!
Once all your ingredients are in the bowl, pour that dreamy dressing over the goodness. Gently toss everything together, making sure each piece is coated in the creamy dressing. It’s like a loving hug for your pasta. How comforting!
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
This step is key, so don’t skip it! Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it serves as a refreshing dish on warm days!
When you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle toss again, and it’s all set to wow your family or friends. Get ready for compliments galore over your BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch!
Tips for Success
- Be sure to cook your pasta al dente for the best texture.
- Rinse the pasta with cold water to stop cooking, keeping it firm.
- Use ripe avocados for the dressing; they’ll blend smoother and creamier.
- Feel free to double the dressing if you love extra creaminess!
- Chill the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: Any pot will do, just make sure it’s big enough to hold the water for boiling pasta.
- Colander: A simple strainer works great for draining pasta. You can even use a slotted spoon if needed!
- Blender or food processor: This is essential for making that creamy dressing. A hand mixer could work too!
- Large mixing bowl: Use any bowl you have on hand for combining the delicious ingredients.
Variations of BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch
- For a vegetarian twist, omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms for a rich, savory flavor.
- Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula for extra greens and vibrant color.
- Spice things up by incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing.
- Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor dimension.
- Include crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick that complements the creamy ranch.
Serving Suggestions for BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost and a complete meal.
- Serve alongside crusty garlic bread or a light baguette to soak up leftover dressing.
- Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade to complement the creaminess.
- For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh herbs or extra avocado slices.
FAQs about BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch
Curiosity is a good thing, right? Here are some common questions I’ve heard about BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch. Let’s clear up any doubts and make your cooking experience even smoother!
Can I make this BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s ideal for meal prep. Just whip it up, chill it, and enjoy it over the next few days. The flavors deepen and become even more delicious!
What can I use instead of bacon?
If bacon isn’t your thing, try crispy chickpeas or even tofu bacon for a vegetarian twist. You still get that delightful crunch and flavor!
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Just choose gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go. The rest of the ingredients fit perfectly into a gluten-free lifestyle.
How can I customize the dressing?
You can easily customize the dressing! Add herbs like dill or cilantro for extra flavor. Or swap Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a different tang.
Can I freeze leftover pasta salad?
I’d recommend enjoying it fresh. Freezing can change the texture of the avocado, making it less appealing. It’s best when everything is crisp and vibrant!
Final Thoughts
As I wrap up this journey through my beloved BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch, I can’t help but smile. This dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and colorful ingredients that come together effortlessly. It’s perfect for a busy night yet shines on special occasions too. The creamy dressing hugs every bite, making each forkful a delight. Sharing it with family and friends becomes a treasured memory around the table. I hope you find just as much joy in making and savoring this recipe as I do. Happy cooking!
Print
BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and delicious BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch recipe that combines short pasta with crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a smooth avocado ranch dressing.
Ingredients
- 300 grams short pasta (rotini or penne)
- 200 grams crispy bacon, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 0.5 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado (for dressing)
- 100 grams Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped lettuce, sliced red onion, and diced avocado. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute the pasta type based on personal preference.
- This dish is best served cold, making it great for meal prep or picnics.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
