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These easy BLT Sandwiches with Garlic Aioli come together with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and crunchy toasted bread all layered with a lemon garlic mayonnaise spread that adds brightness and depth. This sandwich is perfect for lunch and hits the spot when you want something simple but packed with flavor. Adding garlic aioli instead of plain mayo lifts the classic BLT to a new level that I have loved sharing with family and friends.
I first made this recipe the weekend I hosted a casual brunch and it was an immediate hit with my guests who kept asking for the aioli recipe
Ingredients
- Bacon: center cut for crispiness and lean texture choose your favorite brand for best results
- Light sandwich bread: wheat or honey wheat varieties offer a nice balance of flavor and softness
- Green leaf lettuce: provides a tender crunch with beautiful ruffled edges
- Tomatoes: on the vine are ideal for juicy sweetness but beefsteak or heirloom work well too
- Garlic: fresh raw clove preferred for a bright zing in the aioli go for fresh rather than jarred for best flavor
- Lemon juice: adds acidity and helps mellow the garlic flavor while the bacon cooks
- Light mayonnaise: keeps the spread creamy with fewer calories
- Salt and pepper: balance the aioli seasoning to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the bacon:
- Cook the center cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat turning occasionally until crispy about 10 to 12 minutes then drain on paper towels Save some bacon fat for toasting the bread if you like a richer flavor
- Prepare the garlic aioli:
- While the bacon cooks finely mince or press fresh garlic and combine it in a small bowl with lemon juice Let this sit to soften the raw garlic edge After 5 minutes stir in light mayonnaise and season with salt and pepper to taste
- Toast the bread:
- Lightly brush the bread slices with reserved bacon fat or a little olive oil then toast in a pan over medium heat until golden and crisp about 2 to 3 minutes per side This adds crunch and flavor contrast
- Assemble the sandwich:
- Spread a generous layer of garlic aioli onto each toasted bread slice Layer crispy bacon fresh green leaf lettuce and juicy slices of tomato Top with the second slice of bread and gently press to hold together
- Serve immediately:
- Cut each sandwich in half and serve while the bacon is still warm for the best experience
I love the fresh garlic in the aioli because it adds that little punch that turns an everyday sandwich into something memorable The first time I made these was at a family picnic where everyone kept going back for seconds and asking me what gave the sandwich that special zing
Storage Tips
If you plan to keep leftovers store components separately in airtight containers to prevent bread from getting soggy Bacon can be refrigerated for up to four days Assemble sandwiches just before eating to maintain crispness
Ingredient Substitutions
Try turkey bacon for a leaner option and swap light mayonnaise for Greek yogurt mixed with a little olive oil for a healthier aioli twist If you do not have green leaf lettuce iceberg or butter lettuce makes a nice alternative
Serving Suggestions
Pair these sandwiches with a simple side salad or crispy potato chips for a satisfying meal A pickle on the side or a cup of tomato soup complements the flavors beautifully
Enjoy these BLT sandwiches warm for the best flavor and crisp texture. Assemble just before eating to keep the bread crisp and the sandwich fresh.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What makes the aioli in this sandwich special?
The aioli is a flavored mayonnaise mixed with fresh garlic and lemon juice, offering a zesty and creamy element that brightens the sandwich.
- → Can turkey bacon be used instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative that still crisps well and complements the other sandwich flavors.
- → Which type of bread works best for these sandwiches?
Wheat or honey wheat bread is preferred for its flavor and texture, but any light sandwich bread can be used.
- → How should the garlic be prepared for the aioli?
Use fresh raw garlic minced finely by a press, microplane, or garlic rocker to achieve the best flavor and texture.
- → What type of lettuce is recommended?
Green leaf lettuce is ideal for its crisp texture and ruffled edges, which add both taste and visual appeal.