BLT Salad Recipe

This BLT Salad recipe offers a perfect balance of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, savory bacon, and crunchy croutons, all tossed in a creamy homemade dressing. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that makes an excellent lunch, dinner side, or light meal. The combination of fresh ingredients and rich flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Ideal for anyone looking for a classic, quick-to-make salad with minimal preparation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a weekday meal, this easy-to-make BLT salad will become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the BLT Salad:

• 12 oz cooked bacon, sliced
• 1 to 2 cups croutons
• 1 lb (about 3 cups) tomatoes, sliced (any variety)
• 1 medium/large head of lettuce, chopped, rinsed, and dried

For the Creamy BLT Salad Dressing:

• 3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 4 tbsp sour cream
• 1 large garlic clove, pressed
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
• 1 to 2 tbsp milk (or as needed for desired consistency)

Instructions

1. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, pressed garlic, chopped chives, black pepper, and sea salt. Stir until well combined.
   • Gradually add 1 to 2 tbsp of milk, depending on the consistency you prefer. Cover the dressing and refrigerate it to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, sliced tomatoes, cooked bacon, and croutons.
   • Just before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad to taste. Toss everything together gently to coat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This BLT salad comes together in no time, making it a perfect dish for busy days.
• Classic Flavor: It brings the beloved flavors of a BLT sandwich into a fresh and healthy salad form.
• Versatile: With customizable dressing and ingredients, this salad can be tailored to suit your preferences.
• Light yet Filling: The combination of bacon, croutons, and a creamy dressing makes this salad both satisfying and hearty.

Tips

• Make-Ahead Dressing: Prepare the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate for a few hours to let the flavors develop.
• Crispier Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven instead of frying.
• Lettuce Prep: Be sure to dry the lettuce thoroughly after washing to avoid soggy salad.

Variations and Substitutions

• Leafy Greens: Swap the lettuce for other leafy greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine for a different flavor profile.
• Tomato Options: Use heirloom, cherry, or grape tomatoes for variety in taste and color.
• Bacon Alternatives: For a lighter version, try turkey bacon or a vegetarian alternative like tempeh bacon.
• Dressing Alternatives: Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for an extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the dressing ahead of time, but assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.

2. How can I store leftover salad?
Store leftover dressing separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s not recommended to store the assembled salad, as the croutons may become soggy.

3. Can I use a different kind of dressing?
Yes, feel free to substitute the creamy dressing with a vinaigrette or any dressing of your choice.

4. Can I make this salad low-fat?
You can use low-fat mayo and sour cream, or even Greek yogurt as a substitute for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Serve this BLT salad alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches for a complete meal.
• For Meal Prep: This salad can be enjoyed for lunch the next day, but be sure to store the dressing separately to keep the salad fresh.
• With Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn to turn this salad into a more substantial meal.