Heirloom BLT Salad (with Coconut Bacon!)

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Are you tired of the same old salad options? Looking for something fresh and exciting to tickle your taste buds?

Heirloom BLT Salad (with Coconut Bacon!)
Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Total
30 min
Servings
2

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place racks in the top and middle positions.

  2. Line a half sheet pan or large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

  3. Drizzle tamari, Liquid Smoke, and maple syrup over the coconut flakes and mix well.

  4. Spread the coconut flakes in an even layer on the parchment paper.

  5. Bake on the middle rack for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway, until the flakes are mostly dry. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.

  6. Toss the bread pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt.

  7. Spread the bread in a single layer on a lined baking sheet.

  8. Bake on the top rack for up to 15 minutes, tossing halfway, until the croutons are crisp and turning golden on the edges.

  9. Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, miso, garlic, maple syrup, and a dash of sea salt to make the dressing.

  10. Gradually whisk in ⅓ cup of water.

  11. Use a chef's knife to remove the tough ribs from the kale leaves and discard them.

  12. Chop the kale leaves into small, bite-sized pieces and transfer them to a mixing bowl.

  13. Sprinkle the kale with a dash of sea salt and massage the leaves by scrunching them up in your hands until the kale is a darker green and fragrant.

  14. Drizzle enough dressing

About this recipe

Are you tired of the same old salad options? Looking for something fresh and exciting to tickle your taste buds? Well, look no further! This Heirloom BLT Salad with Coconut Bacon is a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.

A Twist on a Classic

We all know and love the classic BLT sandwich – bacon, lettuce, and tomato nestled between two slices of bread. But why limit this mouthwatering combination to just sandwiches? By transforming it into a salad, we can enjoy the same delicious flavors in a lighter and more refreshing way.

Imagine a bed of crisp lettuce, adorned with juicy heirloom tomatoes, crispy coconut bacon, and a drizzle of tangy dressing. Each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes, a perfect harmony between the smoky, salty coconut bacon and the sweet, juicy tomatoes.

The Magic of Coconut Bacon

Coconut bacon, you say? Yes, you heard it right! This vegan alternative to traditional bacon is made from coconut flakes that are seasoned and baked to crispy perfection. It's smoky, savory, and oh-so-addictive. You won't even miss the real bacon!

Coconut bacon is not only a healthier option but also a sustainable one. It's a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while still indulging in the flavors you love. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make at home. Just toss some coconut flakes with a few pantry staples, bake them until crispy, and you've got yourself a delicious bacon alternative.

A Salad Worth Sharing

This Heirloom BLT Salad is not just a crowd-pleaser; it's also a showstopper. Picture a vibrant platter of colorful heirloom tomatoes – red, yellow, and green – arranged artfully on a bed of fresh lettuce. Sprinkle some coconut bacon on top, and you've got yourself a masterpiece.

Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, a dinner party, or simply want to treat yourself to something special, this salad is sure to impress. With its burst of flavors and stunning presentation, it's a dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

In Conclusion

This Heirloom BLT Salad with Coconut Bacon is a game-changer. It takes a beloved classic and elevates it to new heights. The combination of fresh heirloom tomatoes, crispy coconut bacon, and tangy dressing is a match made in salad heaven. So, go ahead, give it a try, and prepare to be blown away!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use regular bacon instead of coconut bacon?

Of course! If you're not following a vegan or vegetarian diet, feel free to substitute regular bacon for the coconut bacon. Just cook it until crispy and crumble it over the salad.

. Can I use any type of lettuce for this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite lettuce variety – romaine, butterhead, or even spinach. Choose whatever you enjoy most.

. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Definitely! This salad is versatile, so feel free to add other vegetables like cucumber, avocado, or red onion. Get creative and make it your own!

. How long does the coconut bacon stay crispy?

Coconut bacon stays crispy for a few hours, but it's best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven to restore some of the crispiness.

. Can I make the coconut bacon in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the coconut bacon ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to a week. Just make sure to reheat it before serving to restore its crunch.

. Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, you can use store-bought dressing if you're short on time. However, making your own dressing allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.

. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While it's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp, you can prepare the individual components in advance and assemble them when ready to eat.

. Can I add croutons to the salad?

Absolutely! Croutons add a delightful crunch to the salad. You can either make your own or use store-bought ones.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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