The BLT: it’s a simple sandwich, but when it’s done right, it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. Crispy bacon, juicy tomato, crunchy lettuce, and creamy mayo all come together between two slices of toasted bread to create a truly satisfying experience.
But what if you could elevate the humble BLT to something truly special? Enter the salmon BLT, a sophisticated twist on a classic that will tantalize your taste buds. We’re talking flaky, flavorful salmon paired with the familiar goodness of bacon, lettuce, and tomato, all drizzled with a sauce that perfectly complements the fish.
The beauty of the salmon BLT is its versatility. You can grill the salmon, bake it, or even pan-fry it. You can use different types of lettuce, experiment with various sauces, and even add other ingredients like avocado or sprouts. This article will explore various techniques and ingredient options to help you create the perfect salmon BLT for your palate.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Salmon BLT
A BLT is a classic for a reason: it’s a simple sandwich that delivers big flavor. But how do you take it to the next level? It all starts with the right ingredients, prepared just so.
The Salmon: Choosing the Right Cut and Preparation
Not all salmon is created equal. For a Salmon BLT, you want something with a good, strong flavor that can stand up to the other ingredients. Sockeye salmon is an excellent choice for its rich taste. If you can find it and you’re concerned about sustainability, consider Copper River Salmon.
As for cooking, you have options:
- Pan-searing: This gives you that desirable crispy skin and moist, flaky flesh.
- Grilling: Adds a delicious smoky element.
- Baking: A simple, hands-off approach.
- Air-frying: A quicker, potentially healthier method.
No matter how you cook it, make sure your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F for the best results. (Rare is under 125°F, medium-rare is 125-130°F, and medium is 130-140°F.)
Bacon: Achieving Crispy Perfection
Thick-cut bacon is the way to go here. You want that satisfying crunch and robust flavor. And the best way to cook it? Oven-baked. Lay the strips on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 13-15 minutes, or until perfectly crispy.
Bread: Selecting the Ideal Base
You need bread that can hold up to all those fillings without falling apart. Sourdough is a great choice, or consider using sturdy ciabatta buns. Toast the bread lightly to prevent sogginess and add some texture.
Lettuce and Tomato: Freshness and Flavor
Don’t skimp on the lettuce and tomato! Use fresh, crisp lettuce (romaine or butter lettuce work well) and ripe, juicy tomatoes. Heirloom varieties are especially delicious. Slice the tomatoes and sprinkle them with a little salt to bring out their flavor.
Crafting the Perfect Aioli
Aioli, a creamy, garlicky cousin of mayonnaise, takes this sandwich from good to gourmet. The richness of the aioli plays beautifully with the salty bacon, flaky salmon, and crisp lettuce and tomato.
Lemon-Dill Aioli Recipe
For a bright, fresh flavor that complements the salmon, try this lemon-dill aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Simply combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. For the best flavor, make the aioli at least 30 minutes before assembling your sandwiches to allow the flavors to meld.
Aioli Variations
Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Try adding a touch of chipotle powder for a smoky kick, a dash of sriracha for some heat, or blending in roasted red peppers for a sweet and savory twist.
How to make a Salmon BLT
- First, cook your salmon. If you’re pan-searing it, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Cook skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through. If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side. Baking is also a good option: preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the salmon on a baking sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- While the salmon cooks, fry your bacon until it’s crispy. Nobody likes soggy bacon!
- Now, make your aioli. If you skipped ahead and didn’t make it already.
- Lightly toast your bread. You want it golden brown, not burnt.
- Time to assemble! Spread aioli on both slices of toasted bread. Layer on the lettuce, tomato slices, crispy bacon, and the cooked salmon. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
- Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Presentation-wise, you could serve it open-faced, or cut the sandwich into triangles for a fancier look. Enjoy!
Variations and substitutions to customize your salmon BLT
The basic salmon BLT is a thing of beauty, but there’s always room for a little personalization! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Salmon substitutions
- Smoked salmon. For a smoky, sophisticated twist, try using thinly sliced smoked salmon.
- Canned salmon. In a hurry? Flaked canned salmon works great and is easy on the budget.
- Leftover cooked salmon. Repurpose that grilled or baked salmon from last night’s dinner!
Bacon alternatives
- Turkey bacon or prosciutto. For a lighter take, these options offer a similar salty, savory flavor.
- Mushroom or eggplant bacon. Vegetarian? Thinly sliced and crisped mushrooms or eggplant can mimic the texture and taste of bacon.
Bread swaps
- Different breads. Whole wheat, brioche, croissants…the possibilities are endless! Choose your favorite.
- Wraps or lettuce wraps. Go low-carb with a wrap or skip the bread altogether and use lettuce leaves.
Cheese additions
- Avocado, goat cheese, or cream cheese. These cheeses complement the flavor of salmon beautifully. (Yes, avocado is technically a fruit, but it plays the same role as cheese in a sandwich, IMHO.)
Sauce swaps
- Pesto, balsamic glaze, or spicy mayo. Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect flavor combination.
Add-ins
- Avocado slices. For extra creaminess.
- Pickled onions or capers. For a tangy kick.
What to serve with a Salmon BLT
A Salmon BLT is great on its own, but the right side dishes can make it a meal! Here are a few of my favorites:
Classic Sides
- Potato chips. You can’t go wrong with a salty, crunchy potato chip!
- Potato salad. Creamy potato salad adds a nice cool element to the sandwich.
- Coleslaw. The tang of coleslaw cuts through the richness of the salmon.
Lighter Sides
- Watermelon. A juicy slice of watermelon is a refreshing counterpoint to the savory sandwich.
- Green salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds some healthy greens to your meal.
- Cucumber salad. Crisp cucumber salad is another light and refreshing option.
Drinks
- Peach Sun Tea. The perfect summertime drink!
- Iced Tea. Classic and refreshing.
- Lemonade. Tart lemonade is always a crowd-pleaser.
In Closing
Is there anything better than a BLT? Yes! A Salmon BLT! The flaky salmon, salty bacon, juicy tomato, and crisp lettuce come together in a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to create your own perfect version. Try adding avocado for creaminess, sprouts for a touch of freshness, or a spicy mayo for a kick. Swap out the bread for a croissant or a bagel. The possibilities are endless!
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a dish to impress your guests at a special occasion, the Salmon BLT is always a winner. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!