Avocado and Bacon Macaroni Salad with Lemon-Thyme Dressing

*Campfire Gathering Delight*

Indulge in the exquisite blend of flavors with our Bacon and Avocado Macaroni Salad, enriched with applewood smoked
bacon and adorned with a zesty lemon-thyme dressing!

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces elbow pasta
• 5 slices diced applewood smoked bacon
• 2 avocados, halved, seeded, peeled, and diced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves for garnish

For the Lemon Thyme Dressing:

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup olive oil

Directions:

1. To craft the dressing, blend mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and thyme in a food processor; season
   with salt and pepper. With the motor running, slowly add olive oil until emulsified; set aside.
2. Boil pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions; drain well.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, crisp bacon until brown and crunchy, approximately 6-8 minutes. Transfer to
   a paper towel-lined plate.
4. In a spacious bowl, combine pasta, bacon, avocado, lemon-thyme dressing, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve promptly, garnished with fresh thyme leaves for a delightful touch.

Elevate your dining experience with this refreshing and savory macaroni salad that promises a symphony of
deliciousness in every bite!