BLAT Loaded Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate BLAT loaded pasta salad recipe, a delightful fusion of flavors that is perfect for any occasion. This budget-friendly dish combines the classic BLAT (Bacon, Lettuce, Avocado, and Tomato) sandwich elements with pasta, creating a hearty and nutritious meal. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Ingredients

Pasta Base

300g of penne pasta
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Salt for boiling water

BLAT Components

200g of crispy bacon, chopped
2 ripe avocados, diced
2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
4 cups of romaine lettuce, chopped

Dressing

1 cup of Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

1/2 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup of shredded cheese
1 tablespoon of fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives)

Instructions

Preparing the Pasta

Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain and Cool: Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

Cooking the Bacon

Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess fat.

Assembling the Salad

Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crispy bacon, diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Adding Optional Ingredients

Enhance the Flavor: For additional flavor, mix in the red onion, shredded cheese, and fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Chill Before Serving: For best results, chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with extra fresh herbs and serve as a main dish or a side.