Description
Crisp bacon meets fresh greens in this BLT Salad, a delightful twist on the classic sandwich. Cool lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crumbled bacon dance together, promising a flavor-packed lunch that satisfies craving souls.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base:
- 1 head romaine lettuce
- 1 pint (473 ml) grape tomatoes
- 6 slices thick cut bacon, cooked
- Sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
Croutons and Garnish:
- Texas toast croutons
- Fresh chives, thinly sliced (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/3 cup (79 ml) mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) sour cream
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) buttermilk (or regular milk or heavy cream)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare romaine lettuce by chopping into bite-sized pieces, then thoroughly rinse under cold water. Use a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture.
- Transfer dry lettuce into a large serving bowl, then slice grape tomatoes in half, allowing their natural juices to integrate with the greens.
- Add cooked bacon, chopped into small pieces, and cubed sharp cheddar cheese to the bowl. The bacon provides a smoky flavor profile while the cheese contributes creaminess.
- Create the dressing by whisking mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk in a separate bowl until smooth. Incorporate garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to develop a cohesive flavor.
- Gently drizzle prepared dressing over the salad ingredients, carefully tossing to ensure complete and even coating of all components.
- Immediately before serving, scatter Texas Toast croutons across the salad for textural contrast. Optional: garnish with thinly sliced fresh chives to enhance visual appeal and provide a mild onion undertone.
- Serve the salad promptly to maintain crispness and maximize flavor complexity. Recommended for immediate consumption to preserve optimal texture and temperature.
Notes
- Toast croutons just before serving to maintain maximum crispiness and prevent sogginess.
- Use thick-cut bacon for more robust flavor and substantial texture in the salad.
- Substitute mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich dressing option that reduces overall calories.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg