BLT Salad with Ranch Dressing is a fresh, flavorful twist on the classic BLT sandwich. It combines crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and savory bacon, tossed with creamy, tangy ranch dressing for a salad that’s indulgent yet refreshing.

This dish captures all the familiar flavors of a BLT but in a lighter, more versatile form that works perfectly for lunch, dinner, or as a hearty side.

The combination of crunchy vegetables, smoky bacon, and creamy dressing creates a satisfying mix of textures and flavors in every bite. Easy to assemble yet impressive in presentation, this salad is a staple for anyone who loves comfort food without the heaviness of bread.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes a classic sandwich and reinvents it as a vibrant, crisp salad. The freshness of the lettuce and tomatoes contrasts beautifully with the smoky bacon and creamy ranch dressing, creating a balanced, satisfying bite every time.

It’s both refreshing and indulgent, making it perfect for a light lunch or a crowd-pleasing side at dinner parties.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

Familiar flavors, fresh twist: Classic BLT flavors in salad form.
Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
Healthy and indulgent: Fresh vegetables paired with flavorful bacon.
Versatile: Serve as a main salad or side dish.
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing: Loved by all ages.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for bacon)
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: American
Course: Salad / Lunch or Dinner

Ingredients

For the Salad:

6 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
½ cup croutons (optional, for added crunch)

For the Ranch Dressing:

½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
¼ cup buttermilk (adjust for desired consistency)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried dill
½ tsp dried parsley
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tsp lemon juice or white vinegar

Simple Cooking Directions

Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
Whisk together ranch dressing ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
In a large salad bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled bacon.
Drizzle with ranch dressing and toss gently to combine.
Top with shredded cheese and croutons if using. Serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1 – Cook the Bacon

Place bacon slices in a cold skillet.
Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crispy (about 8–10 minutes).
Remove and drain on paper towels. Crumble once cooled.

Step 2 – Prepare the Ranch Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Adjust thickness with more buttermilk if needed.

Step 3 – Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled bacon.
Drizzle with ranch dressing and toss gently to coat evenly.

Step 4 – Add Toppings

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and croutons on top for added flavor and texture.

Step 5 – Serve

Divide the salad among bowls or plates and serve immediately for maximum crispness.

How to Serve

Serve as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner.
Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or sandwiches for a complete meal.
Serve in large bowls for family-style dining or in individual plates for presentation.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh, crisp lettuce for the best texture.
Cook bacon until crisp for maximum flavor and crunch.
Make ranch dressing ahead of time; it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.
Add sliced avocado or hard-boiled eggs for extra richness.
Toss salad gently to avoid bruising the lettuce.

Variations

BLT with Avocado: Add sliced avocado for creaminess.
Spicy Ranch: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne to the dressing.
Keto-Friendly: Skip croutons and use full-fat cheese and dressing.
Greek Twist: Add cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier salad.

Freezing & Storage

Refrigeration: Salad should be stored undressed for up to 2 days; add dressing before serving.
Freezing: Not recommended for fresh salad as lettuce and tomatoes will become soggy.
Dressing Storage: Ranch dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Special Equipment Needed

Skillet for cooking bacon
Large salad bowl
Whisk or fork for dressing
Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the ingredients but keep dressing and toppings separate until serving to maintain crispness.

Q: Can I use store-bought ranch dressing?
Absolutely! It works well for convenience.

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

Q: Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, romaine, iceberg, or mixed greens all work well.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes can be added for extra crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

BLT Salad with Ranch Dressing is a crisp, flavorful, and satisfying salad that brings all the favorite flavors of a BLT sandwich into a fresh, lighter dish. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side salad, it combines smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and creamy ranch for a taste everyone loves. Quick to prepare, versatile, and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe that belongs in every home cook’s rotation.