BLT Salad with Avocado

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   COOK THE BACON: Place bacon slices in a single layer in a cold skillet. Turn heat to medium and cook 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until crispy and deeply browned. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool enough to handle (about 3-4 minutes), crumble into bite-sized pieces.

2. 2

   MAKE THE BUTTERMILK DRESSING: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, and garlic powder until smooth. The dressing should be pourable but thick enough to coat the salad. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper. For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice.

3. 3

   PREPARE THE BASE: Place the chopped romaine lettuce in a large, wide serving bowl or divide among 4 individual bowls. Make sure the lettuce is dry - wet lettuce won't hold the dressing properly.

4. 4

   ADD THE FRESH TOPPINGS: Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion over the lettuce. The avocado should be ripe but still firm (it should give slightly when pressed but not feel mushy).

5. 5

   ADD THE STAR INGREDIENT: Scatter the crumbled bacon generously over the top. The bacon should be distributed evenly so every bite gets some. This is what makes a BLT salad - don't be shy with it!

6. 6

   DRESS AND SERVE: Drizzle the buttermilk dressing over the entire salad. Garnish with chopped fresh chives. Serve immediately while the bacon is still slightly warm and the lettuce is crisp. Offer extra dressing on the side for those who like more.