BACON, LETTUCE, AND CHERRY TOMATO SALAD WITH AIOLI DRESSING

Bacon, Lettuce, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Aioli Dressing image

Provided by Joanne Weir

Yield Makes 6 serving

Number Of Ingredients 6

5 ounces applewood-smoked bacon (about 6 slices)
12 cups torn romaine lettuce (from 1 large head; about 13 ounces)
8 ounces cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, and/or pear tomatoes, halved
1 garlic clove, pressed
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 1/2 tablespoons white-wine vinegar

Steps:

Cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat until crisp; transfer to paper towels. Crumble bacon coarsely. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon drippings from skillet; reserve skillet.
Place lettuce and tomatoes in large serving bowl. Heat bacon drippings in skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, then mayonnaise and vinegar; whisk until blended, 30 to 40 seconds. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper. Pour over lettuce and tomatoes and toss to coat. Sprinkle bacon over. Serve immediately.