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Creamy BLT Pasta Salad Recipe with Avocado Ranch Dressing

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A quick and easy creamy BLT pasta salad with a fresh avocado ranch dressing, perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, and casual meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro or parsley (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: sliced green onions or diced red onion

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz rotini pasta and cook according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, cook 8 slices thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, buttermilk, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and cilantro or parsley. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Add more buttermilk if too thick.
  4. Halve cherry tomatoes and chop romaine lettuce. Slice green onions or dice red onion if using.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped bacon, tomatoes, and romaine. Pour avocado ranch dressing over and gently toss until evenly coated.
  6. Refrigerate salad for at least 20 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Do not overdress the salad initially to avoid soggy pasta. Rinse pasta under cold water after cooking to prevent clumping. Use thick-cut bacon for best texture. Make dressing fresh for best flavor. Salad tastes better chilled and can be made a few hours ahead. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 2 days. Avoid freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: BLT pasta salad, avocado ranch dressing, creamy pasta salad, summer salad, potluck recipe, easy pasta salad

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/creamy-blt-pasta-salad-recipe-with-avocado-ranch-dressing-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/