Over-the-Top BLT Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375 F.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of water to a boil with 1 tablespoon kosher salt.

Step 3

Add the pasta and cook until just al dente (do not overcook).

Step 4

Immediately drain the pasta and rinse with cold water.

Step 5

Transfer the pasta to a large bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon avocado oil.

Step 6

Chill the pasta until ready to use.

Step 7

Line a baking sheet with parchment and a rack to fit.

Step 8

Lay the bacon slices over the rack and on the pan, if needed.

Step 9

Bake for 10 minutes, then turn the slices and bake for an additional 10-15

Step 10

Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool.

Step 11

Pour off ¼ cup rendered bacon grease from the pan to a glass jar or other heat-proof container and cool to room temperature in the refrigerator.

Step 12

To make the breadcrumbs, tear the bread into smaller pieces and place in the bowl of a food processor.

Step 13

Process until fine crumbs form.

Step 14

Heat 1 tablespoon avocado oil in a saute pan over medium heat.

Step 15

Add the breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until deep golden brown (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and cool.

Step 16

To make the bacon mayo dressing, whisk together the remaining ½ cup avocado oil and cooled bacon fat in a small bowl.

Step 17

Add the egg yolks, mustard, vinegar, paprika, black pepper, and remaining ½ teaspoon kosher salt to the food processor bowl (wiped down to remove any remaining crumbs).

Step 18

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the avocado and bacon fat blend until the mixture emulsifies and thickens. Transfer the mayo dressing to a jar or other container and chill for about 20 minutes.

Step 19

Chop the bacon into smaller pieces.

Step 20

Shred or finely chop the romaine.

Step 21

To assemble the salad, stir the tomatoes and chives into the chilled pasta.

Step 22

Gently fold in the shredded romaine.

Step 23

Pour on the bacon mayo dressing to coat.

Step 24

Add the bacon.

Step 25

Finish with half of the toasted breadcrumbs.

Step 26

Serve the over-the-top BLT pasta salad in bowls with a sprinkle of the remaining breadcrumbs.