Oh, the BLT—a sandwich that has graced lunch tables for ages, yet when you turn it into a salad, it’s like discovering an unexpected twist in a classic novel. Picture this: crispy bacon crumbling alongside vibrant tomatoes, nestled with crunchy lettuce and drizzled with a dressing so good, it’s like the best kept secret of a summer picnic. Last weekend, I brought this to a barbecue, and even Uncle Joe, the self-proclaimed salad skeptic, couldn’t stop raving about it—who knew a salad could steal the show?
Steps
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning it occasionally, until it is crispy and evenly browned, which should take about 10 minutes. Let the bacon drain on paper towels, then crumble it and set it aside.
- In a blender or food processor, mix together the mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add salt to taste and blend briefly to incorporate it.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, crumbled bacon, chopped tomatoes, and croutons. Toss the salad with the prepared dressing and serve it immediately for the best flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bacon
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ? teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 head romaine lettuce, rinsed, dried, and shredded
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups seasoned croutons
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2526 | Total Fat: 210g | Saturated Fat: 48g | Cholesterol: 240mg | Sodium: 5442mg | Total Carbohydrate: 90g | Dietary Fiber: 18g | Total Sugars: 24g | Protein: 78g | Vitamin C: 126mg | Calcium: 330mg | Iron: 12mg | Potassium: 2826mg
FAQ
- Can I prepare the components of the BLT salad ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the bacon and dressing in advance. Cook the bacon and store it in the refrigerator, and mix the dressing ingredients, keeping it chilled as well. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
- What variations can I try with this BLT salad?
- You can add ingredients like a sliced hard-boiled egg, grated cheddar cheese, or avocado for extra flavor and texture. Some people also enjoy incorporating a dash of lemon juice in the dressing for a brighter taste.
- How can I make the salad dressing healthier?
- For a healthier version of the dressing, consider using low-fat mayonnaise or substituting part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This can reduce the overall fat content while maintaining a creamy texture.
- Is there a way to make this salad vegetarian?
- Yes, to make the salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative. You may also want to add extra vegetables or protein sources like chickpeas for added nutrition.
- How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
- To keep the salad crisp, serve the dressing on the side, allowing each person to add it to their portion just before eating. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and keeps the croutons crunchy.
Tips
- For an added burst of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of lemon juice into the dressing to brighten it up.
- To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, serve the dressing on the side, allowing each person to add it just before eating.
- Enhance the salad by including additional toppings like sliced boiled eggs or grated cheddar cheese for more variety.
- If you want a unique twist, try wrapping the bacon with ribs and seasoning them with BBQ rub, maple syrup, and brown sugar before cooking. Once cooked, crumble the bacon into the salad.
Equipment
- Blender or food processor (for making the dressing).
