. - Step 1: Combining salad base Start by taking a large bowl. Add 4 cups of chopped romaine lettuce. Next, toss in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. This mix forms the fresh base of your salad. - Step 2: Adding proteins and cheese Now, add 1 cup of crumbled cooked turkey bacon to the bowl. This gives your salad a nice crunch. Then, sprinkle in 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This adds creaminess and flavor. - Step 3: Mixing the dressing In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Mix until smooth. This dressing brings all the flavors together nicely. - Step 4: Drizzling dressing Take the dressing you mixed and drizzle it over the salad. Be sure to coat everything evenly. This step is key for great taste. - Step 5: Tossing the salad Gently toss the salad with your hands or a spoon. Make sure all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. This ensures every bite is full of flavor. - Step 6: Garnishing with parsley Finally, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top. This not only adds color but also a fresh taste. It makes your salad look beautiful. - Tips for crispy bacon Cook your turkey bacon in a skillet until it’s crispy. This adds crunch to your salad. - Ensuring the salad is well-dressed If your salad seems dry, add more dressing. A well-dressed salad is always more enjoyable. - Cooling ingredients before serving If you have time, chill the salad for a few minutes. This makes it refreshing, especially on hot days. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To make your Classic BLT Salad shine, consider these tips: - Lightening the recipe: Swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon. This change keeps the flavor while cutting calories. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy twist. - Adding extra crunch: Toss in some sliced cucumbers or crispy croutons. They add a nice texture and keep the salad lively. You can even add sunflower seeds for more crunch. - Balancing flavors with seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. A sprinkle of each enhances the taste. You can add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor. Pair your salad with these ideas: - Ideal pairings with the salad: Serve it with grilled chicken or fish for a full meal. It also goes great with a bowl of soup on a chilly day. - Presentation tips for gatherings: Use a large, colorful platter. Layer the ingredients in sections for a beautiful display. Garnish with extra tomatoes or parsley for a pop of color. - Customizing portion sizes: Adjust the serving size based on your guests. For a small group, keep it simple. For larger gatherings, double the recipe to ensure everyone enjoys. Prepare your salad ahead of time with these tips: - Preparing ingredients in advance: Wash and chop your veggies the night before. This saves time and keeps everything fresh. - Best storage practices: Store salad ingredients in separate containers. Keep the dressing in a small jar. This helps maintain freshness until you're ready to eat. - Using leftovers for other dishes: If you have leftover salad, use it in a wrap or mix it into an omelet. This way, you waste nothing and create new meals with ease. For the full recipe, be sure to check out the details above! {{image_2}} You can switch up the proteins in your Classic BLT Salad to keep things fresh. Use different types of bacon, like crispy pork bacon or even flavored bacon, for a new twist. If you want something heartier, add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. For a vegetarian option, try using tempeh bacon or smoked tofu. These choices still give that savory flavor without meat. The dressing can change the whole taste of your salad. You can try different dressings like ranch, blue cheese, or a tangy vinaigrette. Adding spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne can enhance the flavor. You can also create a creamy dressing with yogurt or buttermilk for a rich taste, or stick to a light vinaigrette for a fresh lift. You don’t have to stick with just lettuce. Incorporate grains like quinoa for added texture and nutrition. Including beans like chickpeas or black beans can boost protein too. For a fruity twist, add diced apples or berries. These changes make your salad not just tasty, but also unique and fun. If you want to dive deeper into the Classic BLT Salad, check out the [Full Recipe]. To keep your Classic BLT Salad fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to seal in the flavors. This will help keep the lettuce crisp and the tomatoes juicy. I recommend using glass containers for easy cleaning and clarity. If you have any leftover dressing, store it separately. This keeps the salad from getting soggy. You may wonder, can you freeze a BLT salad? I do not recommend freezing this salad. The lettuce and tomatoes do not freeze well. They become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze cooked turkey bacon. Just make sure to cool it first. Store it in a freezer bag to save space. How long does the salad stay fresh? In the fridge, your salad can last about 2 to 3 days. Keep an eye on it. Signs of spoilage include wilting lettuce or slimy tomatoes. If you see these signs, it is best to toss the salad. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste! For the full recipe, check the earlier section. What is the best type of lettuce for a BLT salad? I recommend using romaine lettuce. It stays crisp and adds a great crunch. You can also try iceberg for a lighter bite. Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon? Yes, you can use regular bacon. It will add a richer flavor. Just cook it until crispy for the best texture. How can I make this salad vegan-friendly? To make it vegan, swap turkey bacon for tempeh or coconut bacon. Use a vegan mayo too. How to adjust serving sizes? To change the serving size, multiply or divide each ingredient. For two servings, cut each amount in half. Is the dressing gluten-free? Yes, the dressing is gluten-free. Mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar do not contain gluten. How to make the salad spicier? Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper for heat. What can I serve with this salad? This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also add crusty bread for a complete meal. How do I keep my salad fresh for longer? Store the salad in an airtight container. Keep the dressing separate until you serve it. Can I meal prep this salad for the week? Yes, you can prep the salad. Keep the ingredients separate, then mix before eating. This keeps everything fresh. For more detailed instructions, check the Full Recipe. The classic BLT salad combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors to delight every palate. You learned about tasty ingredient options, easy preparation steps, and storage tips to keep it fresh. Try out variations with proteins and dressings to add your twist. Remember, quality matters in every bite. With the right choices, you can elevate this salad for any occasion. Enjoy making this dish and share it with others for a fun meal experience.](https://southerndishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/9f043d04-88b5-4442-84a0-ee6070e7c3bf-250x250.webp)
Classic BLT Salad
Enjoy a refreshing twist on a classic with this Classic BLT Salad recipe! Packed with crispy romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, and savory turkey bacon, this salad is the perfect light meal or side dish. Drizzled with a creamy dressing, it’s both delicious and easy to make in just 15 minutes.