Enjoy a refreshing salad on a hot summer day. Perfect for family gatherings and potlucks, salads are a great way to take advantage of the abundance of fresh produce available during the summer.
For a twist on the classic BLT sandwich, try a veggie-packed salad instead. Crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon mustard vinaigrette create a fresh and flavorful combination that’s sure to please!
BLT Salad: A Classic Reinvented
There’s something about the simplicity of a bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich that always satisfies. Transforming these flavors into a hearty salad filled with nutritious greens is a great way to enjoy the bounty of the garden.
Use your favorite greens like arugula, spinach, and romaine to create a base for this salad. Cherry tomatoes are easy to grow and add a burst of natural sweetness to the dish, making them a kid-friendly option for any budding gardener.
BLT Toppings
Add sliced avocado and creamy goat cheese to replicate the flavors of a traditional BLT sandwich without the bread. You can also customize the toppings with ingredients like chives, cheddar cheese, red onion, or homemade grain-free croutons.
Lunch To-Go
Salads are ideal for quick and easy meals on busy days. Add some sliced chicken for protein or serve the BLT salad as a side dish with grilled meats. Prepare the salad in advance and store it in a mason jar for a convenient on-the-go option.
Divide the salad onto plates or toss everything together in a bowl for a communal serving option. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s packed with fresh flavors and nutritious ingredients!
BLTs With Avocado?
Absolutely! Avocados are not only delicious but also nutritious. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from guacamole to smoothies, and are a versatile ingredient in many recipes.
Avocados are loaded with nutrients like fiber, potassium, B vitamins, and healthy fats, making them a great substitute for eggs or dairy in some recipes. Their creamy texture and mild flavor complement a wide range of dishes, including this BLT salad.
The Dressing
Homemade salad dressings are a healthier option than store-bought varieties, as they are free from refined oils and artificial additives. Making your own dressings is also cost-effective and allows you to control the quality of ingredients.
This salad uses a tangy vinaigrette made with lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. It can also double as a marinade for chicken or fish. Prepare a batch and store it in the fridge for future use.
For more salad dressing recipes, check out this post.
Homemade Ranch Dressing
If you prefer a creamier dressing, try homemade ranch instead. This version uses Greek yogurt for a protein boost, making it a healthier alternative to traditional ranch dressings. Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite flavor combination!
BLT Salad Recipe with Avocado
This salad is a quick and delicious option for lunch or dinner. Take it with you wherever you go and enjoy the fresh flavors!
- 12 oz bacon strips
- 8 cups salad greens
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)
- 2 avocados (sliced)
- 4 oz goat cheese (optional)
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Chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
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In a medium skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
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While the bacon is cooking, divide the salad greens among four plates.
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Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and divide evenly among the plates.
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Let the cooked bacon drain on a plate lined with paper towels and set aside to cool.
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Divide the avocados, goat cheese if using, and bacon evenly among the plates.
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To make the vinaigrette, combine the lemon juice, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper in a mason jar.
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Shake to combine.
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Gradually whisk in the olive oil.
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Drizzle 2 tablespoons of the vinaigrette over each salad, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
BLT Salad Recipe with Avocado
Amount Per Serving (1 salad with 2 TBSP vinaigrette)
Calories 775
Calories from Fat 612
% Daily Value*
Fat 68g105%
Saturated Fat 19g119%
Trans Fat 0.1g
Polyunsaturated Fat 9g
Monounsaturated Fat 36g
Cholesterol 69mg23%
Sodium 911mg40%
Potassium 993mg28%
Carbohydrates 25g8%
Fiber 8g33%
Sugar 12g13%
Protein 20g40%
Vitamin A 1749IU35%
Vitamin C 52mg63%
Calcium 80mg8%
Iron 3mg17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
You can make extra vinaigrette and store it in the refrigerator to save time on the next salad. It’s also delicious as a marinade for chicken or fish!
Other Summer Salad Recipes
Looking for more summer salad ideas? Explore some of our favorite combinations and get inspired to create your own delicious salads at home.
Do you have a favorite summer salad recipe? Share it with us in the comments below!