The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
There’s nothing like a crisp, refreshing salad to cool you down on a warm day—and this BLT salad recipe is summer in a bowl. Inspired by the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich, this version skips the bread and delivers all the same flavor with a healthy twist. Whether you’re craving a light lunch salad, a low-carb meal, or a quick summer recipe, this easy and crunchy BLT salad hits the spot. With crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make on repeat.
Why You’ll Love This BLT Salad 🥓🍅
If you’re looking for a salad that’s fresh, satisfying, and anything but boring, this BLT salad is your answer. It brings together the crunch of fresh lettuce, the juiciness of ripe tomatoes, and the salty crispiness of bacon in every bite—making it a crowd-pleaser for both salad lovers and skeptics alike.
✅ A Healthier Take on a Classic
This salad offers all the flavor of a traditional BLT sandwich but without the bread, making it low-carb and gluten-free. It’s perfect for those looking for lighter meals without sacrificing taste or texture.
⏱️ Quick and Easy to Make
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can throw this salad together in under 20 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weekdays, last-minute lunches, or warm evenings when you don’t feel like cooking.
🥗 Perfect for Summer and Outdoor Meals
This BLT salad is a summer essential—light, crisp, and full of seasonal flavor. It holds up well at picnics, BBQs, or as a side at any summer gathering. Pair it with grilled chicken or serve it on its own for a complete meal.
🔄 Customizable and Family-Friendly
Whether you’re adding avocado, croutons, cheese, or a different dressing, this salad can easily be tailored to your taste. Even picky eaters will love the familiar flavors and textures!
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Crunch 🛒
The beauty of a BLT salad lies in its simplicity—every ingredient plays a role in creating that perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and creamy. Here’s what you’ll need to build your own easy and crunchy BLT salad:
🥓 Bacon (The Star of the Show)
Choose thick-cut bacon for a hearty crunch, or go with turkey bacon for a leaner option. Cook it until perfectly crisp, then crumble or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Bacon adds the signature salty flavor that makes this salad so crave-worthy.
Pro tip: Bake your bacon in the oven for even crispiness and less mess!
🥬 Lettuce (Crisp and Fresh)
Your base should be fresh and crunchy lettuce.
- Romaine brings great texture and holds up well to dressing.
- Iceberg offers maximum crunch and a refreshing bite.
- Butterhead (like Bibb or Boston) adds a softer, tender feel.
Mix and match for added texture and visual appeal.
🍅 Tomatoes (Juicy and Sweet)
Use cherry or grape tomatoes for easy slicing and a pop of color.
- Want something rustic? Try chopped heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes for bold flavor.
Their sweetness complements the salty bacon perfectly and keeps the salad vibrant.
🥑 Optional Add-Ons for More Flavor and Texture
Make your BLT salad your own with these delicious extras:
- Avocado – adds creaminess and healthy fats
- Croutons – for extra crunch and a nod to the sandwich feel
- Shredded cheese – cheddar or mozzarella work well
- Red onion – thinly sliced for a sharp, savory contrast
- Hard-boiled eggs – for added protein and a Cobb-style twist
🥣 The Dressing (Creamy and Tangy)
No BLT salad is complete without a delicious dressing to bring it all together. Try:
- Homemade buttermilk ranch – classic and creamy
- Light mayo-based dressing – if you want to echo the sandwich
- Greek yogurt ranch – for a healthier spin
Drizzle lightly, or serve on the side for dipping and scooping!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This Easy BLT Salad 👩🍳
This easy BLT salad comes together quickly with simple steps and everyday ingredients. Whether you’re making lunch for one or prepping a salad for a backyard BBQ, this guide ensures perfect crunch, flavor, and freshness every time.
🔥 Step 1: Cook the Bacon Until Crispy
Start by cooking your bacon until golden and crispy.
- Pan method: Lay strips in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat, flipping occasionally.
- Oven method: Bake on a foil-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until crisp.
- Air fryer: 8–10 minutes at 375°F (190°C), flipping once.
Once done, place the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease, then chop or crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
🥬 Step 2: Wash and Chop the Lettuce and Tomatoes
While the bacon is cooking, prep your veggies:
- Lettuce: Rinse and pat dry (or use a salad spinner), then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Tomatoes: Slice cherry or grape tomatoes in half. For larger varieties, dice them into chunks.
Pro tip: Dry lettuce is key to keeping your salad crisp and preventing sogginess!
🥗 Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl:
- Add the chopped lettuce as your base.
- Sprinkle the halved tomatoes evenly over the greens.
- Add your crispy bacon pieces.
- If using extras like avocado, croutons, or shredded cheese, layer them on top now.
Toss lightly if serving immediately, or wait to mix in dressing until ready to eat.
🥣 Step 4: Drizzle with Dressing and Serve
Choose your dressing—buttermilk ranch, creamy mayo-based, or Greek yogurt—and drizzle over the salad.
- For a lighter touch, serve the dressing on the side.
- Toss just before serving to keep the texture crisp and fresh.
Garnish with cracked black pepper or fresh herbs (like chives or parsley) for a finishing touch.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ons to Try 🥑🧀
One of the best things about this BLT salad recipe is how flexible it is. While the classic combo of bacon, lettuce, and tomato is a delicious base, you can easily elevate it with extra ingredients to suit your taste, dietary needs, or what’s in your fridge. Here are some flavor variations and tasty add-ons to try:
🥑 Add Creaminess with Avocado
Sliced or diced avocado adds a rich, buttery texture that perfectly balances the salty crunch of bacon. It also boosts your salad with heart-healthy fats and makes it even more filling.
Bonus tip: For extra flavor, toss avocado slices with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt before adding.
🧀 Sprinkle in Cheese for a Savory Kick
Cheese makes everything better! Try these options:
- Shredded cheddar for a classic, sharp flavor
- Blue cheese crumbles for a bold, tangy twist
- Fresh mozzarella pearls for a milder, creamy bite
- Parmesan shavings for a nutty, salty touch
These cheese add-ons take the salad from simple to satisfying, especially if you’re skipping bread.
🍳 Make It a Meal with Protein Boosters
Turn your BLT salad into a full, protein-packed meal by adding:
- Grilled chicken – sliced or shredded, for a hearty lunch or dinner
- Hard-boiled eggs – for extra richness and texture
- Tuna or salmon – a delicious alternative that’s light but filling
- Crispy tofu or tempeh – for a vegetarian-friendly option
🥖 Include Crunchy or Flavorful Toppings
If you’re not avoiding carbs, consider these tasty toppers:
- Croutons – homemade or store-bought, they echo the sandwich experience
- Toasted breadcrumbs – a lighter alternative to croutons
- Pickled red onions – for tangy contrast
- Roasted corn kernels – for a sweet and smoky element
- Sunflower seeds or chopped nuts – for added crunch and healthy fats
🥣 Switch Up the Dressing for New Flavor Profiles
The classic ranch dressing is a go-to, but don’t be afraid to experiment:
- Spicy chipotle mayo – adds a smoky kick
- Lemon garlic vinaigrette – light and zesty
- Honey mustard dressing – sweet and tangy
- Balsamic glaze drizzle – for a bold, gourmet touch
A simple dressing change can give your BLT salad a whole new personality.
Tips for Serving, Storing, and Meal Prep Success 🥣🧊
Whether you’re making this easy BLT salad for a quick weekday lunch, prepping meals in advance, or serving it at a summer gathering, a few simple tips can keep it crispy, flavorful, and meal-prep friendly. Here’s how to make the most of every bite—now and later!
🍽️ Serve Immediately for Maximum Freshness
This salad is best served right after assembling, especially if you’re using a creamy dressing or crispy bacon.
- Wait to toss in the dressing until just before eating to preserve the crunch.
- Serve in a chilled bowl for extra refreshment on hot summer days.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a pinch of black pepper right before serving for a vibrant finish.
🧊 Store Ingredients Separately to Keep Them Crisp
If you’re planning to enjoy the salad later, store the ingredients individually:
- Lettuce and tomatoes: Keep in separate airtight containers, wrapped in paper towels to absorb moisture.
- Cooked bacon: Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Dressing: Store in a jar or container and shake before using.
- Add-ons like croutons or avocado should be added at the last minute to avoid sogginess or browning.
Tip: Use meal prep containers with dividers for easy, no-mix storage!
🥡 Perfect for Meal Prepping or On-the-Go Lunches
This salad is a fantastic make-ahead lunch option that’s portable, delicious, and keeps well with a few tricks:
- Assemble all components (except dressing and croutons) in containers.
- Add a small container of dressing on the side and toss when ready to eat.
- Store up to 2 days in the fridge for peak freshness.
Want extra crunch? Pack a small bag of croutons or seeds to add right before eating.
♻️ Revive Leftovers with a Fresh Twist
If your salad has been sitting dressed for a bit and lost its crunch:
- Add a handful of fresh lettuce or extra chopped veggies before serving.
- Toss in a few new toppings (like nuts, seeds, or even grilled corn) for texture.
- Drizzle with a fresh splash of lemon juice or vinaigrette to brighten flavors.
