BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch

Name: BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
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

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: September 24, 2025

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Introduction to BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch

As a passionate home cook, I’m always on the hunt for recipes that make my life easier without sacrificing flavor. That’s where my BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch comes into play! Imagine a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, transformed into a creamy pasta dish that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for busy evenings or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish harnesses the hearty goodness of rotini pasta, crispy bacon, and the fresh zing of avocado ranch dressing. Trust me, your family will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch

This BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch is a game-changer for busy families! It’s a quick meal that comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The creamy avocado ranch dressing adds a rich flavor that’ll have everyone asking for the secret ingredient. Plus, with crispy bacon and vibrant veggies, it’s not just tasty; it looks fantastic on the table too!

Ingredients for BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch

Gathering the right ingredients for your BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delightful dish to life:

Short Pasta: Rotini or penne works beautifully here, providing great texture for the creamy dressing to cling to.
Crispy Bacon: The star of the dish! Cook it until crispy to add that satisfying crunch and smoky flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bite-sized gems add sweetness and a pop of color that brightens up the salad.
Lettuce: Romaine or iceberg lettuce will provide freshness and a crisp bite, balancing the creaminess.
Avocado: You’ll use this in two ways. Diced for added creaminess in the salad and blended into the dressing for that dreamy texture.
Red Onion: A touch of slicey sharpness, adding a lovely dimension of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Greek Yogurt: This is your healthy twist! It gives a creamy base for the dressing while adding protein.
Mayonnaise: For that rich creaminess we all love in ranch dressing, feel free to swap for a lighter version if you need to.
Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness, cutting through the richness beautifully.
Garlic Powder: A dash of this pantry staple infuses a lovely, warm flavor throughout the salad.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors of this dish.

Remember, if you want to get creative, you can always modify or substitute ingredients to suit your taste! Need to avoid gluten? Swap out the pasta for a gluten-free option. Prefer a lighter dressing? Just use less mayo or a low-fat alternative. Check the bottom of this article for exact quantities and a handy printable version!

How to Make BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this scrumptious BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a beautiful dish ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. When it’s bubbling happily, toss in your chosen pasta.

Cook it until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. I always taste a piece to make sure it’s just right!

Once done, drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it off for our salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Ranch Dressing

While the pasta cools, it’s time to whip up that dreamy dressing. Grab your blender or food processor and toss in one ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, and mayonnaise.

Then add in lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend it all together until it’s smooth and creamy.

This avocado ranch dressing is what takes our pasta salad to the next level. I always sneak a taste to see if it needs a little more seasoning!

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled pasta, crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped lettuce, sliced red onion, and diced avocado.

Now here’s my favorite part—pour that luscious dressing over your pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until every bite is coated in creamy goodness.

Be careful not to over-mix; we want those beautiful colors to show! This vibrant dish is all about eye appeal!

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors mingle and develop.

When you’re ready to serve, scoop out portions onto plates or into bowls. It’s so inviting, everyone will want to dig right in!

There you have it—a tasty, colorful, and filling BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch cooking adventure that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Tips for Success

For perfectly cooked pasta, always refer to the package instructions and taste for doneness.
Use ripe avocados for the creamiest dressing and avoid brown spots.
Allow the salad to chill longer, if possible; it enhances the flavor!
Feel free to experiment with additional veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
Make it ahead of time for meal prep convenience; it keeps well for two days.

Equipment Needed

Large Pot: For boiling pasta. A deep saucepan also works.
Colander: To drain the pasta. A slotted spoon can substitute if needed.
Blender or Food Processor: For making the dressing. A whisk can be used, though it may take longer.
Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all ingredients. Any sizable bowl will do!

Variations of BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch

Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
Vegan Version: Replace bacon with crispy tempeh and use a dairy-free yogurt for the dressing.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for those who love heat.
Pasta Primavera: Mix in seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for extra nutrients and color.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal that packs even more protein.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors perfectly.
For an elegant touch, serve in individual bowls garnished with extra cherry tomatoes and avocado slices.

FAQs about BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch

Can I make this BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle.

How can I adjust the recipe for picky eaters?

To cater to picky eaters, consider omitting certain ingredients like red onion or cherry tomatoes. You can also let everyone assemble their own plates, allowing them to customize their portion!

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the dressing?

If you want to skip mayonnaise, you can use additional Greek yogurt or even mashed silken tofu for a creamy texture without the extra calories. It’s delicious!

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, simply swap out the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety, and you’ll still enjoy this scrumptious BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch!

How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. Just keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some dressing, so you might want to add a little more before serving!

Final Thoughts

Creating this BLT Pasta Avocado Ranch is more than just making a meal; it’s about bringing joy to the table and sharing delightful moments with loved ones. Each creamy bite transports me back to summer picnics and family gatherings, while also catering to my busy lifestyle. This recipe offers a perfect blend of convenience and flavor that makes weeknight dinners enjoyable. So, whether you’re prepping for a family meal or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to satisfy. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!