When you want all the flavors of a BLT without the bread, this quick and easy BLT salad hits the spot every time. Keep it basic or add the extras, totally up to you!
Bacon Lettuce Tomato Salad
As much as I love a good sandwich, sometimes I just want something “crunchy” for lunch. On those days, especially when I’m in a hurry, I make this BLT salad, which is (IMO) the next best thing.
Don’t get me wrong, other days I’m craving bread. That’s when I make my salad sandwich instead. Both are next-level good with my 2-minute easy Ranch dressing recipe, which keeps in the fridge for a week.
What Goes in a BLT Salad Bowl?
The name says it all! Crispy cooked and chopped bacon, which I cook in the microwave when I’m in a hurry, fresh Romaine lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. Anything extra is optional, like diced avocado and shredded cheese. Then, a drizzle of dressing to bring it all together.
BLT Dressing
BLT salads are usually dressed with Ranch dressing. When I want to keep it on the healthier side, I drizzle my Greek yogurt Ranch or cottage cheese Ranch dressings. Not into creamy dressings? Then, a white wine vinaigrette or a balsamic vinaigrette, which goes great with juicy tomatoes.
How to Keep Avocados from Browning in Salad
While you can’t prevent them from turning brown since this is a natural oxidation process that happens over time, you can slow it down by soaking the avocado in lime juice, or simply wait to slice it until the last minute.
BLT Salad (Quick & Easy)
Watch how it’s made:
Ingredients
Basic:
- 2 heads of Romaine lettuce hearts
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 6 slices of bacon
Add-ons:
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- 1 avocado, diced
- Ranch dressing
Instructions
Prep:
- Make the Ranch dressing and refrigerate it until you're ready to drizzle it. Store bought Ranch is just as good.
- Wash and chop the romaine lettuce hearts, and slice the tomatoes in half
- Cook the bacon in a pan or microwave until crispy. Place it between some paper towels to absorb any excess fat. Once cool, chop the bacon.
Assemble:
- In a large salad bowl, make a base with the chopped Romaine. Place the tomatoes and the bacon on top. Add any add-ons, like shredded cheese and avocado (or croutons) on top.
- Drizzle the Ranch, or your favorite salad dressing over the salad.
For meal prep:
- Layer all the salad ingredients inside 4 meal prep containers, except for the sliced avocado. Pack about 2 tablespoons of salad dressing inside four small, lidded containers. The day you're going to eat it, dice ¼ of an avocado and place it on top of the salad. Drizzle the salad dressing right before eating.
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Anna says
This is a great recipe! My husband works out a lot and craves meat / protein and I constantly crave salads and veggies, so this is like a perfect combination for a meal both of us will LOVE.
Ebony says
This was a so easy to make so so good! I was craving a burger, but decided to try your recipe instead. Loved it!
Richard Lowe says
Looks like a yummy and easy recipe. I’ve put it on my list and will be making it soon
Beth says
This is amazing! I’m so in love with this salad. I can’t wait to make it on repeat!
Carol Cassara says
This is pretty much a Cobb salad, which is one of my very faves. So tasty and full of stuff that is super good for us. It’s the healthy choice on many menus.