BLT Salad with the Best Dressing

This BLT Salad with the best creamy dressing is a refreshing and satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion. Made with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy croutons, this salad is topped with a homemade creamy dressing featuring mayo, sour cream, and fresh garlic. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish, or a potluck favorite, this easy BLT Salad recipe will impress with its bold flavors and textures. Simple to make and full of delicious ingredients, this is the ultimate BLT Salad recipe you’ll want to try.

Ingredients for the BLT Salad:

• 12 oz cooked bacon, sliced
• 1 to 2 cups croutons
• 1 lb 3 cups tomatoes (any variety), sliced
• 1 medium/large head of lettuce, chopped, rinsed, and dried

For the Creamy BLT Salad Dressing:

• 3 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 4 Tbsp sour cream
• 1 large garlic clove, pressed
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh chives
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
• 1 to 2 Tbsp milk (or to adjust dressing consistency)

Instructions:

1. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine 3 Tbsp mayonnaise, 4 Tbsp sour cream, pressed garlic, ¼ cup chives, black pepper, and sea salt. Stir well to combine. Gradually add 1 to 2 Tbsp milk until you reach your desired dressing consistency. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Prepare the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, sliced tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and croutons.
3. Assemble and serve: Just before serving, drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, adding more dressing to taste.

---

Tips:

• Bacon: For the best flavor, use thick-cut bacon and cook it until crispy. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
• Lettuce: Iceberg or Romaine lettuce works best for this salad, as they provide a nice crunch. Make sure the lettuce is thoroughly dried after rinsing to avoid sogginess.
• Dressing: Prepare the dressing in advance, as it will only get better as it sits in the fridge. You can also double the dressing recipe for more servings or as a dip.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Vegan option: Use a plant-based mayo and sour cream to make this recipe vegan-friendly. Substitute the bacon with crispy roasted chickpeas or tempeh for a plant-based protein.
• Cheese: Add grated cheddar or crumbled blue cheese for extra flavor and richness.
• Additional Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like cucumber, avocado, or red onions to the salad for more variety and texture.

FAQs:

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the salad components separately and assemble it just before serving. The dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I use store-bought dressing?
While homemade dressing offers the best flavor, you can use store-bought ranch or blue cheese dressing as a substitute if you’re short on time.

How do I store leftover salad?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge, but note that the dressing may make the salad soggy over time. It’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

This BLT Salad makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. Serve it alongside burgers, roasted chicken, or even as a main course with a boiled egg on top. It’s perfect for a summer barbecue, picnic, or potluck!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This BLT Salad is the perfect combination of fresh veggies, crispy bacon, and crunchy croutons, all topped with a creamy, tangy dressing. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side or as a light main dish, this salad is sure to please everyone at the table!