The BLT sandwich—bacon, lettuce, and tomato—is a classic American favorite known for its simplicity and deliciousness. Its crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. To make your BLT sandwich experience even more enjoyable, consider pairing it with complementary sides, salads, and beverages. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you create a well-rounded and memorable meal with a BLT sandwich.
Classic Sides
1. Potato Chips
Potato chips are a quintessential side for a BLT sandwich. Their crispy texture and salty flavor perfectly complement the savory bacon and fresh vegetables in the sandwich. Opt for classic or kettle-cooked chips to add a satisfying crunch.
2. Pickles
Pickles offer a tangy contrast to the richness of bacon. Whether you prefer dill pickles, bread and butter pickles, or even pickled vegetables, their acidity helps balance the flavors of the BLT.
3. French Fries
Crispy French fries are another great side to pair with a BLT. Their hot and crispy texture complements the sandwich’s cold ingredients, and you can customize them with various seasonings or dips.
4. Sweet Potato Fries
For a slightly healthier twist, sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the salty bacon. Their crispy exterior and tender interior provide a delightful contrast to the BLT.
Grains and Starches
5. Quinoa Salad
A quinoa salad with fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette provides a nutritious and flavorful option to accompany your BLT. The nutty flavor of quinoa and the crunch of fresh vegetables add a satisfying texture contrast.
6. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a delicious and savory option that pairs well with the BLT. The crispy, buttery bread infused with garlic complements the flavors of the sandwich and adds a touch of indulgence.
7. Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad, with its creamy dressing and tender pasta, is a classic side dish that pairs well with a BLT. The richness of the salad complements the crispiness of the bacon, creating a well-rounded meal.
Vegetable Sides
8. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, offer a smoky and savory side dish for your BLT. Their charred flavors and tender texture enhance the sandwich’s taste.
9. Tomato Salad
A fresh tomato salad with basil, mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze highlights the tomato in the BLT while adding a burst of flavor. This salad is light and refreshing, making it an ideal side dish.
10. Coleslaw
Coleslaw provides a crisp and tangy contrast to the rich bacon in your BLT. Its crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing offer a refreshing balance to the sandwich.
Salads
11. Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing, pairs well with a BLT. The creamy Caesar dressing complements the savory bacon, creating a delicious combination.
12. Greek Salad
Greek salad, with its mix of cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and tomatoes, offers a Mediterranean twist to your meal. The fresh and tangy flavors of the Greek salad balance the richness of the BLT.
13. Spinach Salad
A spinach salad with light vinaigrette, nuts, and fruits provides a fresh and nutritious option to accompany your BLT. The tender spinach and varied textures add a refreshing element to the meal.
Soups
14. Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a classic pairing for a BLT sandwich. Its rich tomato flavor complements the sandwich’s ingredients, and its warmth provides a comforting contrast to the cold sandwich.
15. Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup offers a hearty and satisfying option to serve alongside your BLT. The savory broth and tender noodles add a comforting element to the meal.
16. Creamy Mushroom Soup
Creamy mushroom soup, with its rich and savory flavors, pairs well with the crispy bacon in the BLT. Its creamy texture and earthy taste provide a satisfying complement to the sandwich.
Desserts
17. Apple Pie
Apple pie, with its buttery crust and sweet apple filling, is a classic American dessert that pairs well with a BLT. The fruity and comforting flavors make for a delightful end to your meal.
18. Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies offer a sweet and indulgent treat to enjoy after your BLT. Their gooey chocolate and soft texture provide a satisfying finish to the meal.
19. Lemon Bars
Lemon bars, with their tangy lemon flavor and buttery crust, offer a refreshing and sweet contrast to the savory BLT. Their bright citrus flavor cleanses the palate and adds a zesty touch.
Beverages
20. Iced Tea
Iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, provides a refreshing and cooling beverage option to pair with your BLT. Its mild flavor complements the sandwich and helps cleanse the palate.
21. Lemonade
Lemonade offers a tangy and sweet option that pairs well with the savory flavors of the BLT. Its refreshing taste enhances the overall dining experience.
22. Craft Beer
A cold craft beer, such as a pale ale or lager, complements the savory bacon and fresh ingredients in your BLT. The beer’s crispness and carbonation help cleanse the palate between bites.
Conclusion
The BLT sandwich is a versatile and beloved dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, salads, soups, and beverages. Whether you prefer classic accompaniments like potato chips and pickles or more adventurous options like quinoa salad and craft beer, there are endless possibilities to create a well-rounded and enjoyable meal. Experiment with these suggestions to find your favorite combinations and make your BLT sandwich experience truly memorable.
