BLT SALAD WITH CROUTONS

BLT Salad with Croutons image

"In my family of six, it's hard to find a vegetable or salad that everyone will eat, but they all raved about this one," enthuses Susie Clayton of South St. Paul, Minnesota. "With garden-fresh basil, this salad is easy, but mouthwatering."-Susie Clayton, South St. Paul, Minnesota

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 25m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

1 pound sliced bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup butter, cubed
4 slices white bread, crusts removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup mayonnaise
3 to 5 tablespoons minced fresh basil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
6 cups torn romaine
1-1/2 cups grape tomatoes

Steps:

In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove to paper towels; drain, reserving 2 tablespoons drippings. Set bacon and drippings aside., In another large skillet, melt butter. Add bread cubes; cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring frequently. Remove to paper towels; cool. , For dressing, in a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, basil, vinegar, pepper, garlic and reserved drippings. In a large bowl, combine the romaine, tomatoes and bacon. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat. Top with croutons.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 429 calories, Fat 37g fat (12g saturated fat), Cholesterol 53mg cholesterol, Sodium 743mg sodium, Carbohydrate 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 12g protein.