Smoky Tomato BLT with Basil Aioli
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Recipe Intro From cookingwithcarrrl
Kick off summer and BBQ season with a BLT that’s smoky, savory, and seriously satisfying. This Smoky Tomato BLT with Basil Aioli features crisp bacon, a rich tomato spread made with Red Gold Petite Diced Tomatoes, and a bright, herbaceous aioli that pulls everything together. It’s a fresh twist on the classic that’s destined to become your new summer go-to.
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Recipe Card
ingredients
For the Basil Aioli:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
ingredients
For the Smoky Tomato BLT:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium shallot, diced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can Red Gold Petite Diced Tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pound thin-sliced bacon, cooked to desired crispness
- 8 slices French bread, toasted
Method
Make the Basil Aioli:
Step 1
In a food processor, blend mayonnaise, basil, and garlic for 40 seconds.
Step 2
Add lemon zest and lemon juice. Blend for another 30 seconds until smooth.
Step 3
Transfer to a container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
Prepare the Smoky Tomato Spread:
Step 1
Prepare a grill for direct heat cooking. Once hot, place a skillet on the grates and heat olive oil.
Step 2
Add diced shallots and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Step 3
Add red pepper flakes and minced garlic; cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4
Stir in Red Gold Petite Diced Tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Step 1
In a mixing bowl, toss shredded lettuce with 1/2 of the Basil Aioli and Parmesan cheese.
Step 2
Spread 2 tablespoons of the smoky tomato mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bread slice.
Step 3
Layer with 5–6 slices of bacon, then add about 1/2 cup of the dressed lettuce mixture.
Step 4
Top with the remaining slice of bread and serve with extra Basil Aioli on the side.