Savory Bacon & Avocado Macaroni Salad

Are you searching for a tasty side dish for summer? This Savory Bacon & Avocado Macaroni Salad is a great pick. It’s perfect for gatherings and barbecues, serving 8 to 12 people. Its creamy and crunchy mix will be a hit with your guests.

This salad is not just tasty; it’s also full of nutrients. Each serving has 10.0g of protein, 6.9g of fiber, and 40.8g of carbs. The mix of bacon, avocado, and macaroni offers a delightful taste that will impress everyone.

Key Takeaways

• This Savory Bacon & Avocado Macaroni Salad serves 8 to 12 people per recipe, making it perfect for summer gatherings and barbecues.
• The salad combines the classic elements of macaroni salad with the freshness of avocado and the savory taste of bacon, creating a unique blend of creamy and crunchy textures.
• Each serving contains 506 calories, 35.0g of fat, and 10.0g of protein, making it a nutritious and filling summer side dish.
• The salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for busy summer schedules.
• This dish is one of the best macaroni salad recipes and summer side dishes, perfect for those looking for a delicious and easy-to-make recipe.

Why Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad Will Be Your New Favorite

The mix of bacon and avocado in a macaroni salad is amazing. The avocado’s creaminess and the bacon’s crunch are perfect together. This combo is tasty and good for you, thanks to the avocado’s healthy fats and fiber.

This salad is special because it suits many tastes. The bacon’s smoky taste and the avocado’s freshness give it a modern twist. It’s great for anyone, whether you like trying new things or sticking to what you know.

The Perfect Blend of Creamy and Crunchy

The salad’s success comes from its mix of textures and tastes. The avocado’s creaminess and the bacon’s crunch, along with the macaroni, make it fun to eat. Adding avocado and bacon to macaroni salad makes it stand out.

A Modern Twist on Classic Macaroni Salad

This salad is a fresh take on the classic macaroni salad. The bacon and avocado add a new twist, making it perfect for those wanting something different. It’s a tasty and healthy meal choice that’s sure to be a hit.

Health Benefits of This Unique Combination

The bacon and avocado in this salad are good for you. Avocados are full of healthy fats and fiber, while bacon is a protein source. This mix makes the salad a great choice for a nutritious meal. The benefits include:

• Rich in healthy fats and fiber
• Good source of protein
• Excellent option for a balanced diet

In summary, the bacon and avocado macaroni salad is a tasty and healthy choice. Its creamy and crunchy textures, along with its unique flavors, make it a great option for trying something new.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Macaroni Salad

Creating a tasty macaroni salad starts with the right macaroni salad ingredients. A mix of pasta, veggies, and dressing is key. For a classic summer salad, use bowtie pasta or similar shapes. Add halved cherry tomatoes, cubed avocados, and crumbled bacon for flavor.

Some must-haves for your summer salad recipes are:

• 8 ounces of bowtie pasta
• 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes
• 2 avocados, cubed
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ¼ cup of mayonnaise
• ½ tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

These ingredients form a solid base for your macaroni salad. Feel free to add other items like diced red onion or fresh dill. With the right mix of macaroni salad ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can whip up a tasty and refreshing summer salad recipe for any event.

Choosing and Preparing the Avocados

Preparing avocados for your macaroni salad is crucial for the best taste and texture. Start by picking ripe avocados. They mash better and taste creamier. Check if an avocado is ripe by gently squeezing it. A ripe avocado will feel slightly soft but still firm.

To stop browning, sprinkle lemon juice on the avocado. This keeps it fresh and looking good in your salad. You can also store the avocado in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap to keep it fresh longer.

Selecting Ripe Avocados

Here are some tips for picking ripe avocados:

• Look for avocados that are heavy for their size
• Choose avocados with a slight give when pressed
• Avoid avocados with soft spots or bruises

Preventing Browning

To prevent browning, try these methods:

• Sprinkle lemon juice over the top of the avocado
• Store the avocado in an airtight container
• Wrap the avocado in plastic wrap

Cutting Techniques

When cutting avocados, be gentle to avoid bruising. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Then, slice or dice it as needed. With these tips, you’ll get the perfect avocados for your macaroni salad. Your dish will be delicious and look great too.

Bacon Selection and Cooking Tips

Choosing the right bacon is key for a great bacon and avocado macaroni salad. You want bacon that’s smoky and savory. Look for “thick-cut” or “applewood-smoked” bacon for the best taste.

Cooking bacon can be tricky, but with some tips, you can get it just right. Preheat a pan over medium heat and add 4 tablespoons of J&P Avocado Oil. Then, add 8 slices of bacon and cook until crispy, flipping halfway through. This should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the heat.

Here are some tips for cooking bacon:
* Use a high-quality bacon that is thick-cut and smoked
* Cook the bacon over medium heat to prevent burning
* Use a pan with a heavy bottom, such as a Chantal Enamel-on-Steel Sauté Pan, to distribute heat evenly
* Don’t overcrowd the pan, cook the bacon in batches if necessary
* Remove excess bacon grease from the pan after cooking to prevent a greasy salad

By following these tips, you can make delicious bacon recipes. This will take your bacon and avocado macaroni salad to the next level. Always use high-quality ingredients and cook the bacon until it’s crispy but not burnt. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at cooking bacon in no time.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

To make a tasty macaroni salad, perfect for summer, follow these steps. First, cook the macaroni until it’s just right, about 8 minutes. While it cooks, mix 1/2 cup of olive oil, 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar, and 1/4 cup of water in a bowl. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well.

Once the macaroni is done, drain it and let it cool for 5 minutes. In a big bowl, mix the cooled macaroni, 1 pound of crispy bacon, 2 ripe avocados diced, 1/3 cup of red onion, and 2 cups of baby arugula. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss for 2 minutes. This ensures all ingredients are well mixed.

Cooking the Macaroni

Cooking the macaroni is key to a great salad. Boil a large pot of salted water and add 1 pound of dried short pasta. Cook for 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. Then, drain and let it cool for 5 minutes.

Preparing the Dressing

The dressing is what makes the salad flavorful. Mix 1/2 cup of olive oil, 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar, and 1/4 cup of water in a bowl. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well.

Assembly Process

The last step is assembling the salad. In a large bowl, mix the cooled macaroni, 1 pound of crispy bacon, 2 ripe avocados diced, 1/3 cup of red onion, and 2 cups of baby arugula. Pour the dressing over and toss for 2 minutes. This ensures all ingredients are well combined.

This macaroni salad is perfect for summer, being light, refreshing, and flavorful. Its unique mix of ingredients makes it a hit at any summer event. Try it out and enjoy the delicious taste of a well-made macaroni salad.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage Solutions

Preparing a tasty Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad ahead of time can save you a lot of time. Planning ahead ensures your salad stays fresh and ready to serve. Keeping your salad fresh is all about proper storage.

To store your macaroni salad, put it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below. This stops bacteria from growing and keeps your salad fresh for up to 3 days. Remember, don’t leave your salad out for more than 2 hours to avoid food safety issues.

Proper Storage Methods

Here are some tips for storing your macaroni salad:

• Use an airtight container to prevent air from reaching the salad
• Keep the salad refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below
• Do not leave the salad out at room temperature for more than 2 hours

How Long It Lasts

The shelf life of your macaroni salad depends on how well you store it. If stored correctly, it can last up to 3 days. Making the salad a day before can also improve its flavor, as the ingredients blend better.

By using these make-ahead tips and storage solutions, you can enjoy your Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad at its best. Whether it’s for a party or a quick lunch, your salad will be perfect.

Customization Options and Variations

The Savory Bacon & Avocado Macaroni Salad offers endless customization options. It’s great for those who love customizable recipes and trying new flavors. You can mix in different ingredients to make unique salad variations that match your taste.

Consider adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or other veggies to the salad. You can also try different cheeses, nuts, or seeds for texture and taste. For a spicy twist, add jalapenos or red pepper flakes. The secret to a great customizable recipe is finding the right balance of flavors and textures.

Here are some tips for making your own salad variations:

• Add protein sources like grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for added nutrition
• Experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free
• Try using various types of lettuce, such as arugula or spinach, for a different flavor profile
• Don’t be afraid to add your favorite herbs and spices to give the salad a personal touch

By following these tips and using your imagination, you can create a wide range of salad variations that will impress everyone. So, get creative and enjoy making this customizable recipe your own!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad is perfect for summer party recipes. It’s great as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a main course. Pairing it with the right dishes can really make it stand out.

Some excellent salad pairings include grilled meats, fresh fruit salads, or crusty bread. At a summer barbecue, try it with grilled chicken or steak. Add a refreshing fruit salad with strawberries, watermelon, or grapes. Or, pair it with crusty bread and roasted vegetables for a healthy meal.

Here are some pairing ideas to consider:

• Grilled chicken or steak with a side of roasted vegetables
• Fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits such as strawberries, watermelon, or grapes
• Crusty bread with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar

These pairings will enhance the flavors of the Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad. They offer a well-rounded and delicious meal for your guests. So, get creative with your summer party recipes and salad pairings for a memorable gathering!

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Healthy salad recipes are all about knowing the nutritional facts. The Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad is tasty but high in calories and fat. With 568 calories per serving, it’s a big part of your daily calorie intake.

To make this salad healthier, try these tips: eat less bacon for less fat or use vegetarian or vegan substitutes. Knowing how to adjust the salad lets you enjoy a tasty, healthy meal that suits your diet.

• Calories per serving: 568
• Total Fat per serving: 45g
• Saturated Fat per serving: 11g
• Cholesterol per serving: 73mg
• Sodium per serving: 1326mg

Being aware of these dietary tips helps you include the Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad in a balanced diet. It’s a great way to add healthy salad recipes to your meals.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When making a Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad, you might run into some common mistakes. Salad troubleshooting is key to making sure your salad is perfect every time. One big mistake is overcooking the pasta, which can make it mushy.

To fix this, cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Then, rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking. Another problem is the salad being too dry or too soggy. You can solve this by adjusting the dressing amount and adding it to the warm pasta.

Some other common issues and their solutions include:

• Avocado browning: sprinkle lemon juice on the cut avocado to prevent browning
• Flavors not melding together: let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine
• Pasta clumping together: toss the pasta with a small amount of oil after cooking to prevent clumping

By knowing these common mistakes and how to avoid them, you can make a delicious Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad. Always use fresh ingredients and taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. With practice and patience, you’ll become a pro at making this salad, and common cooking mistakes will be a thing of the past.

Conclusion: Mastering Your Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad

With the right ingredients and techniques, you’re ready to make a top-notch Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad. Follow the steps and tips given to craft a dish that delights your taste buds. It’s a sign of your culinary mastery.

This macaroni salad is perfect for any occasion. It’s great for summer barbecues, potlucks, or just a tasty lunch. Try new things, add fresh produce, and make it your own. You’ll impress everyone with your skills in summer salads.

Print Recipe

Savory Bacon & Avocado Macaroni Salad

Author: Brian Wilgus Cuisine: American

Rate this recipe: