Bacon and avocado pasta salad recipe

Updated on October 4th, 2025

Summer meals are always better with something cool and hearty, and that is where this bacon and avocado pasta salad recipe shines. The smoky crunch of bacon mixes with creamy avocado, while a lemon-thyme dressing brings a refreshing twist that keeps every bite exciting. It comes together with just a little prep, yet the flavors make it taste like you spent all afternoon. You can serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it as a main dish when you want something easy but full of flavor.

Why this recipe works

• Flavor balance: The mix of smoky bacon, creamy avocado, and citrus dressing creates layers of flavor that make this pasta salad stand out from the usual versions.
• Texture contrast: The crisp bacon, soft pasta, and creamy avocado combine in every bite to create a texture that keeps the salad interesting and fun to eat.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps like cooking pasta, crisping bacon, and blending a quick dressing, this recipe comes together with very little effort.
• Fresh ingredients: Using fresh thyme, lemon juice, and ripe avocados adds a bright and refreshing touch that makes the salad taste lively and fresh.
• Versatile dish: This recipe works equally well as a side for grilled meats or as a main dish when you want something filling but light.

Serving suggestions

• Family dinner: Serve this bacon and avocado pasta salad with grilled chicken or steak to create a summer dinner that is balanced and hearty.
• Party food: Bring this salad to a barbecue or picnic where it will stand out on the table and pair well with almost any dish.
• Quick lunch: Pack it into containers for a refreshing and filling cold lunch that travels well and keeps you energized through the day.
• Side dish: Place it next to burgers, hot dogs, or grilled fish to give a flavorful twist to traditional summer cookouts.
• Main meal: Enjoy a generous portion of the pasta salad on its own with a slice of bread for a simple and satisfying dinner.

Bacon and avocado pasta salad recipe

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Make this bacon and avocado pasta salad recipe with creamy lemon-thyme dressing for a fresh, flavorful summer side dish or easy dinner idea.

• Author: Bobby
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 5 slices of bacon (diced)
• 2 avocados (peeled, pitted, and diced)
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)

Lemon thyme dressing-

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/3 cup olive oil

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Instructions

1. To prepare the dressing- in a food processor combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Turn the blender on and add the olive oil in a slow stream until emulsified. Set aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat a large skillet to medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until brown and crisp (about 6-8 minutes). Drain on a plate lined with a paper towel.
3. In a large bowl combine the pasta, avocado, bacon, lemon-thyme dressing, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve right away and garnish with fresh thyme.

Nutrition

• Serving Size:
• Calories: 741
• Sugar: 4.5 g
• Sodium: 732.2 mg
• Fat: 55 g
• Carbohydrates: 52.6 g
• Protein: 12.2 g
• Cholesterol: 27 mg