BLT Panzanella

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BLT Panzanella is a fresh, hearty salad that takes the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich—crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce—and transforms them into a rustic bread salad. With toasted cubes of bread acting as croutons, this dish is perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or even a casual dinner. It’s bold, satisfying, and packs all the savory-crunchy goodness you crave.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

baconcherry or grape tomatoesromaine or butter lettucecrusty bread (like sourdough or ciabatta)olive oilgarlicsalt and pepperred wine vinegarDijon mustardmayonnaise (optional for creaminess)fresh basil (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cut the bread into bite-sized cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and a bit of minced garlic, and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble when cooled.

Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Add a spoonful of mayo if you prefer a creamy version.

In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, tomatoes, lettuce, and bacon.

Drizzle with the dressing and toss well to combine. Let sit for 5-10 minutes so the bread absorbs the flavors.

Top with fresh basil if using, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 as a main or 6 as a side
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Use arugula or baby spinach instead of romaine.
Toss in grilled chicken or a poached egg for added protein.
Try multigrain bread for a healthier twist.

storage/reheating

BLT Panzanella is best enjoyed fresh as the bread softens over time.
If storing, keep the components separate and combine just before serving.
Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 1 day, but texture will be softer.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but assemble just before serving for best texture.

What type of bread works best?
Day-old crusty bread like sourdough or ciabatta holds up best.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon or use plant-based bacon alternatives.

Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Can I grill the bread instead of baking?
Yes, grilling adds a nice smoky flavor to the croutons.

Conclusion

BLT Panzanella is a vibrant twist on a classic sandwich, turning familiar flavors into a refreshing, satisfying salad. It’s easy to customize, quick to make, and perfect for any season. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it part of your regular meal rotation.

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