Blt Rice Salad

BLT Rice Salad Recipe - A Classic American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The BLT Rice Salad is a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, transforming it into a refreshing and satisfying salad. This dish combines the beloved flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomato with the hearty base of rice, all tied together with a creamy mayonnaise dressing. It's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a novel side dish for your next barbecue. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for any level of cook.

History

The BLT Rice Salad is a relatively modern creation, inspired by the timeless popularity of the BLT sandwich, which has its roots in late Victorian tea sandwiches. The addition of rice to the classic combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato is a contemporary twist, likely influenced by the growing trend of incorporating grains into salads for added texture and nutritional value. This recipe reflects the evolving nature of culinary traditions, blending classic flavors with new ingredients to create something both familiar and novel.

Ingredients

3 cups of cooked rice, cooled to room temperature
4 - 6 slices of bacon, crisp-cooked and crumbed
1 cup of finely shredded iceberg lettuce
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped
0.75 cup of mayonnaise
1 tsp of ground black pepper

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine rice, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and pepper. Toss lightly.

Variations

Add diced avocado for creaminess and a boost of healthy fats.
Mix in a handful of crumbled feta or blue cheese for a tangy twist.
Include hard-boiled eggs, chopped, for additional protein.
Stir in some cooked corn kernels or black beans for extra texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture in your BLT Rice Salad, consider the following tips:

- Use rice that has been cooled to room temperature to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.

- Opt for high-quality, thick-cut bacon for a more robust flavor and satisfying crunch.

- Seed the tomatoes to avoid excess moisture in the salad.

- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise for the regular mayonnaise.

- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to the mayonnaise for an extra zing.

Serving Suggestions

The BLT Rice Salad can be served as a standalone dish for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, and is a refreshing addition to any summer barbecue or picnic. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a protein-rich main dish and a fruit dessert.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a great BLT Rice Salad is in the preparation of the ingredients. Cooking the bacon until crisp ensures a satisfying crunch, while cooling the rice to room temperature helps maintain the salad's texture. Tossing the ingredients gently prevents the salad from becoming mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute arugula or spinach for the iceberg lettuce for a nutritional boost.

- Use turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative for a lighter version.

- Swap out mayonnaise for avocado mayo or a vegan mayonnaise to cater to dietary restrictions.

Make Ahead Tips

The BLT Rice Salad can be prepared up to a day in advance, making it a convenient option for gatherings. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container, and give it a gentle stir before serving. Add the lettuce just before serving to maintain its crispness.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the BLT Rice Salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the colorful layers of ingredients. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a touch of greenery and a burst of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the creamy mayonnaise and salty bacon. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling lemonade or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

The BLT Rice Salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the ingredients will be adversely affected. This dish does not require reheating; serve it chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of BLT Rice Salad contains approximately 250 calories. The majority of these calories come from the carbohydrates in the rice and the fats from the bacon and mayonnaise.

Carbohydrates

A serving of BLT Rice Salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the rice, which provides energy and dietary fiber. The tomatoes also contribute a small amount of carbohydrates, along with dietary fiber and natural sugars.

Fats

The fats in this salad primarily come from the bacon and mayonnaise, contributing to the dish's overall richness and mouthfeel. A single serving contains roughly 15 grams of fat, of which 4 grams are saturated. Using a light mayonnaise or substituting part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt can reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Each serving of BLT Rice Salad offers about 7 grams of protein, mainly from the bacon. While not a high-protein dish, it can contribute to your daily protein intake, especially when served as part of a meal that includes other protein sources.

Vitamins and minerals

The BLT Rice Salad provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the tomatoes and lettuce. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lettuce, although mostly water, contains small amounts of vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this dish are eggs (found in mayonnaise) and soy (if the mayonnaise contains soybean oil). Individuals with specific food allergies should check the labels of pre-packaged ingredients or consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the BLT Rice Salad is a moderately caloric dish with a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also provides a range of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a side dish. However, those monitoring their fat intake should consider using lighter versions of mayonnaise or substituting part of it with Greek yogurt.

Summary

The BLT Rice Salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the classic elements of a BLT sandwich with the hearty foundation of rice. It's easy to make, can be adapted to suit various dietary needs, and is perfect for any occasion, from a simple family dinner to a festive gathering. With its blend of textures, flavors, and nutrients, this salad is sure to become a favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a hot summer day and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new and exciting to try. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and tattered magazine clippings, I came across a handwritten note from a dear friend.

The note read, "Dear Grace, I hope you enjoy this BLT Rice Salad recipe as much as I do. It's a refreshing twist on a classic dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With love, Martha."

I couldn't contain my excitement as I read through the ingredients and instructions. The combination of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and fluffy rice seemed like the perfect dish to serve at our upcoming family picnic. I immediately set to work gathering the necessary ingredients and preparing the salad.

I cooked the rice until it was tender and fluffy, then let it cool while I fried up some crispy bacon in a hot skillet. The sizzle and pop of the bacon filled the air with a mouthwatering aroma that made my stomach growl in anticipation. Once the bacon was cooked to perfection, I set it aside to cool while I chopped up some fresh tomatoes and shredded some crisp lettuce.

I tossed the rice, bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce together in a large bowl, then drizzled on a tangy vinaigrette dressing that Martha had included in her note. The flavors melded together beautifully, creating a dish that was both hearty and refreshing. I couldn't wait to share it with my family at the picnic.

As we set up our picnic blanket in the shade of a sprawling oak tree, I proudly unveiled my BLT Rice Salad to oohs and ahhs from my loved ones. They eagerly dug in, savoring each flavorful bite and showering me with compliments. It was a hit!

From that day on, the BLT Rice Salad became a staple at our family gatherings. I made it for every holiday, birthday, and special occasion, and it never failed to impress. Friends and neighbors would often request the recipe, and I happily shared it with anyone who asked.

Years passed, and Martha's BLT Rice Salad became a beloved tradition in our family. It reminded us of sunny picnics in the park, laughter-filled gatherings with loved ones, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with those we hold dear.

As I look back on that fateful summer day when I first discovered the recipe, I am filled with gratitude for my dear friend Martha and her thoughtful gift. Her BLT Rice Salad has brought so much joy and laughter to our family over the years, and I will always cherish the memories we have shared around the picnic table, savoring each delicious bite of this treasured dish.