This isn’t just another salad – it’s the bistro experience at home! Imagine: crispy bacon, buttery avocado, and a tangy-sweet dressing that’ll make you forget you’re eating greens. Ready before your takeout would arrive!
Rustic Bacon & Avocado Bistro Salad is a flavorful combination of smoky bacon, creamy avocado, and crisp greens, all brought together with a tangy dressing. This hearty and satisfying salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing side dish. Packed with fresh ingredients and balanced textures, it’s a simple yet gourmet recipe that’s sure to impress.
Why This Salad Outshines Restaurants
✅ **15-minute prep** – Faster than delivery!
✅ **Perfect texture balance** (Crispy bacon + buttery avocado)
✅ **Make-ahead friendly** – Dress greens separately for meal prep
**Pro Tip:** For an *extra gourmet touch*, use thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon!
🍽️ Nutrition per serving (approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 427 kcal |
| Total Fat | 35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 27 mg |
| Sodium | 828 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 21 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 12 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 13 g |
Rustic Bacon & Avocado Ingredients:
Fresh Produce
- 1 head Romaine lettuce (or butter lettuce)
- 300g cherry tomatoes
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
Proteins & Bread
- 8 slices bacon
- 4 slices rustic country bread
Dressing Base
- 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt (or sour cream)
Seasonings & Toppings
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Method
Croutons & Bacon Preparation
- Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F)
- Create seasoned croutons
- Crisp and chop bacon
Roasted Tomatoes
- Halve and season tomatoes
- Roast until caramelized
Dressing Composition
- Combine wet ingredients
- Whisk until smooth
- Season to taste
Final Assembly for Rustic Bacon & Avocado Bistro Salad
- Layer lettuce base
- Add warm components
- Dress and garnish
Professional Tips
Flavor Enhancements
- Add grated Parmesan or cheddar
- Include red pepper flakes for heat
- Use butter lettuce for milder flavor
Make-Ahead Notes
- Prepare components separately
- Store dressing separately
- Assemble just before serving
This salad combines classic American ingredients with bistro-style preparation techniques, creating an elevated version of a traditional bacon and avocado salad.
If you love this Rustic Bacon & Avocado Bistro Salad, check out this delicious recipe for Bacon, Avocado.
FAQ
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes! For best results, store the components separately (greens in one container, bacon and avocado in another) and add the dressing just before serving. The salad stays fresh for up to 2 days when stored properly in the fridge.
What type of bacon works best for salads?
Thick-cut, oven-baked bacon maintains its crispiness longer than pan-fried bacon. We recommend applewood-smoked bacon for its robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado.
Are there keto-friendly substitutions?
Absolutely! For a keto version, replace the honey in the dressing with ½ teaspoon of erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You can also add blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor and healthy fats.
Can I use a different dressing?
Of course! While our bistro dressing is specially crafted for this salad, it also pairs wonderfully with a simple balsamic vinaigrette or creamy ranch dressing. Check out our homemade dressing collection for more ideas.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Sprinkle the sliced avocado with a little lemon juice or lime juice before adding it to the salad. The acidity helps slow down the oxidation process, keeping your avocado looking fresh and vibrant.
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🍽️ Try our Classic Potato Salad next – A Timeless Summer Side Dish!
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