Fresh BLT Salad with crispy bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes served in a bowl

BLT Salad

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BLT Salad: A Cozy and Comforting Delight

There’s something magical about a salad that brings together the beloved flavors of a classic BLT sandwich—all wrapped up in a bowl of rustic comfort. The crunch of fresh romaine lettuce, the savory notes of crispy turkey bacon, and the burst of juicy cherry tomatoes create a melody of textures and tastes that can warm even the chilliest day. As I stirred this hearty salad in my kitchen one sunny afternoon, memories of family barbecues came rushing back. The laughter, the chatter, and those unforgettable moments spent savouring every bite—the very essence of togetherness.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a refreshing dish for your next gathering, this BLT Salad is a recipe you need to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare—a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
  • Packed with layers of flavor and texture that everyone will adore.
  • Nutrient-rich, featuring fresh vegetables and lean turkey bacon.
  • Perfect for meal prep—enjoy it all week long!
  • A delightful way to repurpose day-old bread for crisp croutons.

What You’ll Need

Gather These Simple Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 strips of turkey bacon, chopped and cooked
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped (about 2 heads)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
  • 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup Jack cheese, grated
  • 2 cups croutons
  • Ranch Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 green onion, roughly chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, smashed and roughly chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Pinch of sea salt and cracked pepper
  • 2 cups day-old French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1-1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

How to Make BLT Salad

Let’s Make It Together

  1. Start by blending all the ingredients for the dressing in a blender until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

  2. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

  3. Chop the day-old bread into cubes and place them on a cookie sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder, and toss gently with your fingers or a rubber spatula to coat.

  4. Bake the bread cubes in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden brown, tossing once halfway through the baking time to achieve even crispness.

  5. While the croutons are baking, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Fry the chopped turkey bacon until it becomes crispy, approximately 5-7 minutes.

  6. In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, crispy turkey bacon, grated cheddar cheese, Jack cheese, and halved cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together with glee!

  7. Just before serving, add the croutons and dress the salad with the creamy ranch dressing. A sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper on top will elevate the dish even further.

Variations & Creative Twists

Fun Ways to Customize It

  • Avocado Delight: Toss in some creamy avocado slices for an indulgent touch, enhancing the richness of the salad.
  • Zesty Dressing Swap: Try a zesty vinaigrette instead of ranch for a refreshing, tangy spin!
  • Add Some Heat: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick that ignites your palate.
  • Veggie-Packed: Incorporate other fresh veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrients.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the salad and dressing a few hours in advance; just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
  • Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use different kinds of cheese based on your preferences—they all bring something delightful to the table!
  • Storage Suggestions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy them within 2-3 days for the best flavor.
  • Bread Freshness: If you don’t have day-old bread, lightly toast fresh bread in a skillet before cutting it into cubes for croutons.

Nutrition Information per Serving

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 320
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes! You can prep the salad and dressing ahead of time. Just keep them separated until you’re ready to serve for freshness.

Can I use different ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the types of cheese or add in your favorite vegetables for a personal touch.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within a few days.

How long does it last?

When stored properly, leftovers can last about 2-3 days, though the croutons may lose their crunch.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Salad is a comforting ode to the classic flavors we all cherish, delivering warmth and joy in every bite. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo with your favorite movie, it’s truly the kind of dish that brings people together. So go ahead, save this BLT Salad to your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking!

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BLT Salad

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  • Author: Chef Emma
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Flexitarian
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Description

A cozy salad that combines the beloved flavors of a classic BLT sandwich with fresh vegetables and crispy turkey bacon.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 strips turkey bacon, chopped and cooked
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped (about 2 heads)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
  • 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup Jack cheese, grated
  • 2 cups croutons
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 green onion, roughly chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, smashed and roughly chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Pinch of sea salt and cracked pepper
  • 2 cups day-old French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1–1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Blend all the ingredients for the dressing in a blender until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  3. Chop the day-old bread into cubes and place them on a cookie sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder, and toss gently.
  4. Bake the bread cubes in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown, tossing halfway through.
  5. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Fry the chopped turkey bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Add the chopped romaine lettuce, crispy turkey bacon, grated cheeses, and halved cherry tomatoes to a large mixing bowl. Toss together.
  7. Dress the salad with the creamy ranch dressing just before serving, and a sprinkle of cracked pepper on top.

Notes

You can customize with avocado, zesty dressing, or other veggies. For storage, keep the salad and dressing separate until serving.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Baking, Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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