BLT Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh and satisfying dish, the BLT salad is the perfect choice! Combining crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce, this salad captures all the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich in a vibrant and healthy form. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a delightful meal or side dish for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 4 cups of mixed salad greens
• 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup of ranch dressing
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the salad) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Fat: 25g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Begin by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Once cooked, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens.
4. Slice the tomatoes into rounds and add them to the bowl with greens.
5. Once the bacon has cooled, crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
6. Add the crumbled bacon to the salad bowl.
7. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
8. Drizzle the ranch dressing evenly over the salad.
9. Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option or use avocado instead of feta cheese for a creamy texture. Additionally, switch ranch dressing with a vinaigrette for a tangy twist.

Serving and Pairings

This BLT salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic toast for added texture and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the greens may wilt. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the salad won’t hold up.

Cooking Mistakes

• Using soggy bacon; ensure it’s crispy for best flavor.
• Not seasoning the salad; always add salt and pepper to enhance taste.
• Overdressing the salad; start with a little and add more if needed.
• Using unripe tomatoes; choose ripe ones for sweetness.
• Not letting bacon drain; this helps avoid a greasy salad.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Chill your serving bowl for a refreshing experience.
• Experiment with different greens for varied textures.
• Make extra bacon for snacking!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but avoid tossing them together until you’re ready to serve to keep the greens crisp.

What can I use instead of ranch dressing?

You can use vinaigrette, blue cheese dressing, or even a homemade dressing with olive oil and lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

While it’s best fresh, you can prep the ingredients separately for easy assembly during the week.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions for extra crunch and flavor.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the bacon with tempeh bacon and use plant-based cheese and dressing.

Conclusion

The BLT salad is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, offering a blend of flavors and textures that make it a perfect dish for any occasion. Quick to prepare and bursting with freshness, this salad is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for many variations to suit your taste. Enjoy this satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite!

BLT Salad

A refreshing and flavorful dish combining crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce, perfect for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Keyword: BLT salad, bacon, tomatoes, salad, healthy recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 320kcal

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon
• 2 large tomatoes sliced
• 4 cups of mixed salad greens
• 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup of ranch dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain excess fat.
• In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens.
• Slice the tomatoes into rounds and add them to the bowl with greens.
• Crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces and add it to the salad bowl.
• Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
• Drizzle the ranch dressing evenly over the salad.
• Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 2g