BLT Chopped Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

My Favorite Summer Salad: A BLT Chopped Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Summer is here, and with it comes the glorious bounty of fresh produce. This year, I'm obsessed with salads – not just any salads, but vibrant, flavorful salads that are as satisfying as they are refreshing. And my absolute favorite? This BLT Chopped Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

I've always loved a classic BLT sandwich, but sometimes, I crave something a little lighter, a little more vibrant. This salad takes all the best parts of a BLT – the smoky bacon, the juicy tomatoes, the crisp lettuce – and transforms them into a refreshing, healthy meal. The addition of creamy avocado and salty feta elevates it to another level, while the homemade lemon vinaigrette ties everything together perfectly.

The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. There's no complicated chopping or technique involved. It’s a perfect weeknight meal when I’m short on time but still want something delicious and healthy. I often prep the components ahead of time – the bacon can be cooked earlier in the week, the lettuce washed and stored, and the vinaigrette made the night before. Then, when it’s time for dinner, it's simply a matter of assembling and tossing everything together.

I love using romaine lettuce for its crispness and slightly bitter taste, which balances the richness of the other ingredients. Feel free to substitute with your favorite lettuce, however. Butter lettuce or even spinach would work well. The cherry or grape tomatoes add a pop of sweetness and juicy burst, while the crumbled feta brings a salty, tangy counterpoint. And don't skimp on the bacon! Crispy, smoky bacon is essential for that true BLT flavor.

The homemade lemon vinaigrette is the star of the show. It's bright, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard creates a perfectly balanced dressing that coats the salad without being too heavy. I like to use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor, but canola oil can be substituted if needed.

This salad is incredibly versatile. I often add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, making it a complete and satisfying meal. You could also add other vegetables, like cucumber or bell peppers, to customize it to your liking. It's a perfect salad to take to a picnic or potluck, as it holds up well and travels easily.

But the best part? This salad is ridiculously delicious. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors – the crisp lettuce, the creamy avocado, the salty feta, the smoky bacon, all perfectly balanced by the bright lemon vinaigrette. It’s a salad that’s both satisfying and refreshing, a perfect summer meal that I’ll be making again and again.

So, ditch the boring salads and give this BLT Chopped Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette a try. I promise, you won't be disappointed. It's the perfect way to enjoy the bounty of summer produce and impress your family and friends with a simple yet elegant dish. And let’s be honest, who doesn't love a good BLT?

Pro Tip: Toasting the slivered almonds adds a delightful crunch and enhances their nutty flavor. Just spread them on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Serving Suggestions: This salad is a perfect lunch or light dinner. Serve it on its own or alongside some crusty bread for a more substantial meal. You can also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

Storage: Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salad is best served fresh, but it will keep for up to 2 days.

Step-by-step

• For the Lemon Vinaigrette: Add all ingredients to a blender and pulse until well emulsified. Store in refrigerator.
• For the salad: Add all ingredients to a large bowl (or just layer all ingredients on plates individually), and toss with dressing just before serving.