Bacon, lettuce, and tomato: stacked on toasted bread, it’s a simple but perfect combination. The classic BLT is a timeless sandwich for a reason.
But if you’re looking to elevate the BLT experience, you can’t go wrong with an avocado BLT. Adding avocado to the classic BLT adds a creamy texture, rich flavor, and some healthy fats to boot.
The beauty of the avocado BLT is that you can customize it to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet sandwich with aioli or a quick and easy weekday lunch, the avocado BLT can be adapted to any taste. This guide will show you how.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Avocado BLT: Key Ingredients
The beauty of a BLT lies in the quality of its ingredients. Here’s how to select the best for your avocado-enhanced version:
Bacon: Choosing the Right Cut and Cooking Method
Thick-cut bacon gives you a satisfying chew, but if you want to kick things up a notch, spicy maple candied bacon is the way to go. For optimal crispness with minimal mess, try oven-baking your bacon.
Lettuce: Selecting for Texture and Flavor
Romaine lettuce offers that classic BLT crunch, but peppery arugula can add a delightful twist. Whatever you choose, make sure to wash and thoroughly dry your lettuce to avoid a soggy sandwich.
Tomato: In-Season Freshness is Key
Ripe, in-season tomatoes are non-negotiable. For even more flavor, try marinating your tomato slices for about 10 minutes before assembling your sandwich. This will bring out their sweetness and juiciness.
Avocado: Ripeness and Preparation
Choose avocados that yield to gentle pressure. To prevent browning, slice your avocado right before assembling your BLT.
The Avocado BLT Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to build the ultimate Avocado BLT? Here’s how to do it.
Preparing the Components
- Cook the bacon until it’s as crispy as you like it. (I prefer baking it in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness.)
- Slice and season the tomatoes. If you want to get fancy, try quick-marinating some heirloom tomatoes.
- Just before you’re ready to assemble your sandwich, slice the avocado. Ripe avocados are easiest to work with.
Assembling the Sandwich
- Toast the bread. Sourdough is a great choice.
- Spread mayonnaise or aioli (if you’re using it) on both slices of bread. Garlic herb aioli is a real flavor booster.
- Layer lettuce, tomato, bacon, and avocado on one slice of bread. (I like to layer the tomatoes, bacon, and lettuce.)
- Top with the other slice of bread, slice in half, and enjoy!
Variations and Customizations: Making It Your Own
The basic avocado BLT is a masterpiece, but there’s always room for a little personalization. Here are some ideas for taking your sandwich to the next level:
Bread Choices: Beyond Basic White
Don’t underestimate the power of good bread! Sourdough brings a tangy flavor and chewy texture, while whole wheat adds a nutty depth. Ciabatta, Sperlonga, or even a loaf of Italian bread are great choices.
Sauce Sensations: From Mayo to Aioli
While mayonnaise is a classic, consider branching out. Avocado basil mayo adds a fresh, herbaceous note. For a simple avocado aioli, blend avocado, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until creamy. You could also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to your mayo for a kick.
Cheese Please?: Adding a Creamy Element
Cheese isn’t traditional, but it can be delicious! Gorgonzola offers a pungent, creamy contrast to the other flavors. Cheddar or mozzarella are other good choices that complement the avocado.
Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations
Going meatless? Try tempeh bacon or mushroom bacon as a bacon substitute. Avocados are naturally dairy-free, as are many bacon alternatives, so you can easily create a completely dairy-free and meatless BLT.
Serving and Storage
What goes well with an avocado BLT? Here are a few ideas:
- French fries or potato wedges
- Green salad
- Soup
- Fruit salad or vegetable sticks
And here are a few tips to help you save time and keep your sandwich fresh:
- Wait to slice the avocado until right before you assemble the sandwich.
- Cook the bacon up to 4 days in advance and keep it in the fridge.
- You can also make the avocado aioli a few days ahead of time and store it in a sealed container.
Putting It All Together
The avocado BLT is more than just a sandwich; it’s a satisfying, customizable experience. Crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and creamy avocado come together in a symphony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist.
The key to a truly great avocado BLT is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Ripe avocados, vine-ripened tomatoes, and crisp lettuce will make all the difference.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to find your perfect avocado BLT. Add your favorite herbs, spices, or sauces for a personal touch. The possibilities are endless!