You don’t need to make a sandwich to experience the amazing combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato.
Is there anything better than a BLT sandwich? For a simple and tasty lunch, I would normally say no to that question. But if you want to cut out the bread and reduce your carbs, there is another option that is just as good, if not better. With a BLT salad, you get all of the great taste and texture of bacon, lettuce, and tomato but in a salad instead of a sandwich. It’s also easier to add croutons, avocados, and anything else you would put on a salad that may not fit into a sandwich. For true BLT lovers, you might even end up preferring this salad to the classic sandwich.
Every time I make this salad, I find it to be even more flavorful than a BLT sandwich. Instead of regimented layers, the bits of bacon and slices of tomato are mixed throughout. The creamy dressing that’s part of this recipe also adds to the flavor profile, giving the BLT salad something that a BLT sandwich just can’t match.
Of course, you don’t have to use the dressing that’s designed to go with a BLT salad. You might find that you prefer Homemade Ranch Dressing or Avocado Ranch Dressing. Depending on your tastes, you might also enjoy Creamy Balsamic Dressing or Homemade Strawberry Vinaigrette. The choice is entirely up to you!
Is This BLT Salad Healthy?
Health-wise, a BLT salad is similar to a BLT sandwich. The biggest difference is that there is no bread, helping to reduce the carbs. The lettuce and tomatoes in the salad provide plenty of vitamins and minerals, and the bacon will add some protein, however, it also contains fat and sodium, too. If that’s a concern for you, you might want to consider swapping to turkey bacon for a slightly healthier version. Also, keep in mind that the mayonnaise used to make the dressing will add some fat to the salad as well.
Customize Your BLT Salad
Obviously, bacon, lettuce, and tomato will be the main ingredients in your BLT salad. But beyond that, you should feel free to customize it however you please. Croutons are also included in the recipe to provide a little bit of crunch. I would also suggest adding sliced avocado to the salad for more texture and flavor. Adding cheese is another option. Personally, I think crumbly blue cheese or feta cheese work best, but shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack are good options, too. Also, there is nothing wrong with including shredded carrots and other vegetables in this salad to make it even better.
How to make ahead and store
It’s always best to eat a BLT salad as soon as it’s prepared. However, the bacon and dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a day or two. However, try not to add croutons or avocado until the salad is ready to serve, and avoid storing leftover salad with the croutons, avocado, or dressing on it because this can make the leftover salad soggy. If you have to store the leftovers assembled, it’s best to eat them within 24 hours.
Serving Suggestions
Similar to a BLT sandwich, you can turn a BLT salad into the main course of a meal. If that’s the case, I recommend making one or two side dishes. I’ve found that Air-Fryer Potato Wedges, Grilled Corn on the Cob, and Oven-Roasted Vegetables are a few great options. You can also have a BLT salad as a side dish, typically with a meal that has a little more protein. For instance, I think this salad is a great complement to Grilled Chicken Breast or Cilantro-Lime Chicken.
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup milk
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt to taste
- 1 head romaine lettuce chopped
- 2 large tomatoes chopped
- 1 cup croutons
- 1 large ripe avocado sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
- In a blender, combine mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and salt. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasonings as needed, or add more mayo to make it thicker.
- In a large salad bowl, toss together chopped lettuce, tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and croutons.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately garnished with optional avocado.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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