Summer between two slices of bread.
Nothing says summer like a BLT with the thickest, juiciest tomatoes you can find. There’s really no reason to alter this classic combo but obviously we couldn’t help ourselves. Use plain mayo if you’re a purist (not that there’s anything wrong with that) or give it a little somethin’ somethin’ with our chipotle lime version.
Equipment Needed: Frying Pan, Fork, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Butter Knife, Bowl or Large Cup, Paper Towels
Serving Suggestion: Individual Plating
Servings: 4
Suggested Wine Pairing: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Suggested Beer Pairing: Pilsner, Wheat Beer
Ingredients:
- 12 strips of thick cut applewood smoked bacon ($6.99/lb)
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes (about $3/lb)
- 8 slices of bread (we used ciabatta rolls) (about $3/loaf)
- 1 lime (about $0.30/each)
- 1 1/4 C of mayonnaise ($3.99/15 oz jar)
- 1-2 TSP ground chipotle powder (about $5/4 oz)
- 2-3 C mixed greens ($3.89/5 oz package)
Preparation:
- Before you start anything, scoop your mayo into a large cup or bowl, add a teaspoon of chipotle powder and squeeze in the juice of half a lime. Stir thoroughly and give it a taste. Add more lime juice and chipotle powder to your liking and pop the mix in the fridge to let the flavors meld a bit.
Lime juice brightens things up and cuts the fat of the bacon...if you're into that kind of thing.
- Put your frying pan over medium heat and add your bacon so there’s space between the strips; you’ll most likely have to do a couple batches. Drain the cooked pieces on paper towels until you’ve finished them all.
By now you know if there's bacon in the recipe there's a picture of bacon in the post.
- While your bacon is sizzling wash off the tomatoes and remove the stems. Cut each flavor grenade into 1/4 inch slices and set aside. Rinse your lettuce while you’re at it.
Heirloom tomatoes turn things up to 11.
- Toast your bread of choice. We used a soft ciabatta roll but thick cut whole wheat or a Pullman loaf are also highly recommended. Once toasted, spread the mayo generously on each piece and layer on tomatoes, three strips of bacon (or more if you prefer) and lettuce. Smile and try not to get tomato juice all over yourself as you devour.
We used mixed greens just to keep it interesting but feel free to use the classic iceberg.
