Imagine the classic comfort of a BLT meeting the satisfying chew of al dente pasta—all tossed together in a creamy, tangy dressing that makes every bite unforgettable. This BLT Pasta Salad with a Twist takes the beloved sandwich flavors and transforms them into a portable, picnic‑perfect dish that still feels indulgent.
What sets this recipe apart is the clever addition of avocado and a light mustard‑yogurt dressing, which adds richness without weighing the salad down. A hint of smoked paprika in the bacon gives an extra depth that elevates the whole composition.
Busy families, backyard grillers, and anyone craving a hearty lunch or side will fall in love with this salad. It shines at potlucks, summer barbecues, or even as a make‑ahead work‑day lunch.
The process is straightforward: cook the pasta, crisp the bacon, whisk the dressing, then toss everything together with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado. A quick chill and you’re ready to serve a vibrant, flavor‑packed dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
All‑Day Flavor: The smoky bacon, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes stay bright even after hours in the fridge, making it perfect for leftovers or packed lunches.
Quick Assembly: With just one pot for pasta and a few minutes of stovetop work, you can have a complete meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Texture Harmony: The creamy dressing coats each noodle while the avocado adds buttery richness and the bacon supplies a satisfying crunch.
Customizable Core: Swap pasta shapes, add extra veggies, or adjust the dressing to suit your dietary needs without losing the signature BLT vibe.
Ingredients
The magic of this salad lies in the balance of fresh produce, hearty pasta, and a silky dressing that ties everything together. Crisp bacon provides a salty crunch, while the lettuce and tomatoes add brightness. Avocado lends a buttery smoothness, and the mustard‑yogurt sauce delivers a tangy, creamy coating that clings to each bite. Together, these components create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that feels both familiar and exciting.
Pasta & Main Components
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 6 slices thick‑cut bacon
- 2 cups shredded lettuce (Romaine or Butterhead)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
Dressing (Mustard‑Yogurt)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
Seasonings & Garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 Tbsp fresh chives, thinly sliced
Each ingredient plays a specific role: the pasta provides a neutral canvas, the bacon injects smoky saltiness, and the fresh vegetables contribute acidity and crunch. The avocado’s creamy fat balances the tang of the mustard‑yogurt dressing, while the smoked paprika in the sauce echoes the bacon’s depth. Together they create a cohesive, mouth‑watering salad that stays vibrant from the first forkful to the last.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually 8‑9 minutes. Drain in a colander, rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process, and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside while you work on the bacon.
Crisping the Bacon & Veggies
- Cook the Bacon. Lay the bacon strips in a cold skillet, then turn the heat to medium. Cook, turning occasionally, until the strips are crisp and golden, about 6‑8 minutes. Transfer to a paper‑towel‑lined plate and crumble once cooled.
- Sauté the Tomatoes. In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 2‑3 minutes until they soften and release a little juice, then remove from heat and let cool.
- Combine Fresh Greens. While the bacon cools, gently tear the lettuce into bite‑size pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the cooled tomatoes and set the bowl aside for the final toss.
Whisking the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and smoked paprika. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper, then taste and adjust the acidity or sweetness if needed. This dressing should be tangy, creamy, and just sweet enough to complement the bacon.
Bringing It All Together
- Mix Pasta and Dressing. Add the cooked rotini to the bowl of lettuce and tomatoes. Pour the mustard‑yogurt dressing over the top and toss gently until every noodle is evenly coated.
- Fold in Avocado & Bacon. Gently fold the diced avocado and crumbled bacon into the salad, being careful not to mash the avocado. The avocado should stay in distinct, buttery chunks.
- Finish with Herbs. Sprinkle the sliced chives over the salad for a fresh oniony note. Give the salad one final light toss, then cover and chill for at least 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to soak into the pasta.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
Al Dente Pasta. Drain the pasta just shy of fully cooked; it will finish absorbing the dressing while it chills, preventing a mushy texture.
Dry Bacon Properly. Pat the cooked bacon with paper towels before crumbling to remove excess grease, which keeps the salad from becoming soggy.
Cool Ingredients. Allow the pasta, bacon, and tomatoes to reach room temperature before mixing; this avoids melting the avocado and keeps the dressing from separating.
Flavor Enhancements
Add a splash of fresh lemon juice to the dressing for extra brightness, or stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for subtle heat. A tablespoon of capers introduces a briny pop that mirrors the bacon’s saltiness beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not over‑mix once the avocado is added; vigorous stirring will turn the creamy chunks into a puree. Also, avoid using overly salty bacon—taste before adding extra salt to the dressing.
Pro Tips
Use a Microplane. Grate a tiny amount of fresh lemon zest into the dressing for aromatic citrus notes that lift the entire dish.
Prep the Night Before. Assemble all components (except avocado) and store them separately; combine just before serving for optimal texture.
Chill the Bowl. A cold mixing bowl helps keep the pasta from warming the dressing, preserving its creamy consistency.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Replace rotini with bow‑tie or farfalle for a different bite. Swap bacon for smoked turkey or crispy pancetta for a milder flavor. If you prefer a plant‑based version, use tempeh bacon strips and a dairy‑free yogurt in the dressing.
Dietary Adjustments
For gluten‑free needs, choose rice or quinoa pasta certified gluten‑free. Make the dish vegan by using coconut‑based yogurt and plant‑based bacon alternatives. To lower carbs, substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salad alongside grilled corn on the cob, a crisp cucumber‑radish slaw, or a simple garlic‑bread baguette. For a brunch twist, top each portion with a poached egg and a drizzle of hot sauce.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
Allow the salad to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer keep, portion into freezer‑safe bags, squeeze out excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving cold.
Reheating Instructions
If you prefer a warm version, reheat only the pasta and bacon in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, stirring gently. Add a spoonful of fresh dressing after reheating to restore creaminess. Microwaving is fine for individual portions—cover loosely and heat in 30‑second bursts, stirring between intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
This BLT Pasta Salad with a Twist delivers the nostalgic comfort of a classic sandwich while adding the heartiness of pasta and the creaminess of avocado. You now have a complete guide—from ingredient selection and step‑by‑step cooking to storage, variations, and troubleshooting. Feel free to experiment with different proteins, dressings, or herbs; the recipe is a flexible canvas for your culinary imagination. Serve it cold, warm, or at room temperature and enjoy every flavorful bite!
