Grilled Artisan Romaine BLT
Smoky, savory, and bursting with fresh flavor, this Grilled Artisan Romaine BLT transforms a classic combination into a standout grilled salad. Featuring crisp Tanimura & Antle Artisan® Romaine Lettuce, each lightly charred wedge develops a subtle smokiness while maintaining its signature crunch. Sweet, caramelized Tanimura & Antle Artisan® Sweet Italian Red Onions pair perfectly with crispy bacon, roasted tomatoes, and delicate shavings of Pecorino Romano for a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Finished with a rich balsamic glaze, this simple yet impressive dish delivers the perfect blend of freshness and indulgence. Whether served as a side for summer grilling or enjoyed as a light entrée, it's a memorable recipe that showcases the exceptional quality and flavor of Artisan produce.
Ingredients:
- 2 heads Tanimura & Antle Artisan® Romaine Lettuce
- 2 Tanimura & Antle Artisan® Sweet Italian Red Onions, sliced into ¼-inch rings
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 slices thick-cut bacon
- ¾ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons shaved Pecorino
- Romano cheese
- 12 grape tomatoes
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 - 8 Servings
15 min Prep
20 min Cook
35 min Total
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Grill & Ingredients
Preheat your grill to high heat. While the grill heats, wash and dry the Artisan® Romaine Lettuce, then cut each head in half lengthwise. Slice the Artisan® Sweet Italian Red Onions into ¼-inch rings. Brush the cut sides of the romaine and both sides of the onion rings with olive oil, then season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon & Balsamic Glaze
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and finely chop once cooled. Discard excess bacon fat from the skillet, then add the balsamic vinegar. Simmer over medium heat until reduced to approximately ¼ cup, creating a rich balsamic glaze. Set aside.
Step 3: Roast the Tomatoes
Step 4: Grill the Romaine & Onions
Place the onion rings on the hot grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning once, until tender and lightly charred. Place the romaine halves cut-side down on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until grill marks develop and the leaves are lightly charred while remaining crisp.
Step 5: Build the BLT
Arrange the grilled romaine halves on a serving platter or individual plates. Sprinkle with shaved Pecorino Romano cheese, then top with grilled onion rings, roasted tomatoes, and crispy bacon.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the grilled romaine and toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy the smoky, savory flavors of grilled Artisan® Romaine Lettuce paired with sweet grilled onions, crispy bacon, roasted tomatoes, and tangy Pecorino Romano for a fresh twist on a classic BLT.