What Compliments a BLT Sandwich? 15 Delicious Pairings

A classic BLT sandwich is a timeless favorite, but have you ever wondered what compliments a BLT sandwich to create the perfect meal? Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a hearty accompaniment, we’ve got you covered with 15 delicious pairings that will elevate your BLT experience to new heights.The humble BLT, with its crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, is a staple in many households. However, choosing the right side dish can transform this simple sandwich into a memorable feast. Let’s explore some mouthwatering options that will complement your BLT and satisfy your taste buds.

1. Classic Potato Chips: A Perfect Side for Your BLT

Understanding what truly compliments a BLT sandwich means exploring complementary textures and flavors that enhance the classic combination

Nothing beats the simplicity and crunch of classic potato chips alongside a BLT. The salty, crispy texture of the chips perfectly complements the sandwich’s flavors. Opt for kettle-cooked varieties for extra crunch, or try flavored chips like sour cream and onion or barbecue for an added twist.Additionally, potato chips offer a convenient and portable option for those on-the-go lunches. Their shelf-stable nature makes them an ideal choice for picnics or outdoor events. Not only that, but the wide variety of flavors available in the market allows you to experiment with different taste combinations to find your perfect BLT pairing.

As we explore what compliments a BLT sandwich, let’s consider a classic pairing that brings both creaminess and crunch to your plate

2. Creamy Coleslaw: The Ideal Accompaniment to a BLT Sandwich

A cool, creamy coleslaw is an excellent complement to a BLT sandwich. The tangy dressing and crisp vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich bacon and toasted bread. For a healthier option, try a vinegar-based slaw instead of the traditional mayonnaise version.Coleslaw also adds a delightful textural contrast to the sandwich. While the BLT offers a combination of crispy bacon and soft bread, the coleslaw brings a fresh, crunchy element to each bite. Furthermore, the cool temperature of the slaw can be particularly refreshing on a hot summer day, making it an ideal pairing for outdoor dining or barbecues.

3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A Sweet Pairing for Your BLT

A fresh fruit salad not only compliments a BLT sandwich but also adds a burst of vitamins and natural sweetness to your meal

For a lighter option that pairs well with BLT sandwiches, consider a fresh fruit salad. The sweetness of the fruit balances the savory flavors of the sandwich. Mix together seasonal fruits like strawberries, melon, grapes, and citrus for a colorful and nutritious side dish.In addition to its refreshing taste, a fruit salad brings a host of nutritional benefits to your meal. The vitamins and antioxidants in fresh fruits can help boost your immune system and provide essential nutrients. Moreover, the natural sugars in fruits can satisfy your sweet tooth without the need for processed desserts, making it a healthier alternative to more indulgent sides.

When considering warm options that compliment a BLT sandwich, few choices are as comforting and complementary as a bowl of tomato soup

4. Tomato Soup: A Warm Complement to a BLT Sandwich

On cooler days, a warm bowl of tomato soup is the perfect companion to your BLT. The soup’s rich tomato flavor enhances the sandwich’s fresh tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend of tastes. Add a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food combo.Certainly, the combination of a BLT and tomato soup is a classic pairing that evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort. The smooth texture of the soup contrasts nicely with the crunch of the toasted bread and crispy bacon. Furthermore, dipping your BLT into the soup can create an entirely new taste experience, melding the flavors in a delightful way.

5. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: A Delicious Addition to Your BLT Meal

Sweet potato fries offer a healthier alternative to traditional French fries while still providing that satisfying crunch. The natural sweetness of the potatoes compliments a BLT sandwich beautifully, especially when paired with a spicy dipping sauce.Not only are sweet potato fries delicious, but they also offer numerous health benefits. They’re rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making them a nutritious choice. Additionally, their vibrant orange color adds visual appeal to your plate, making your meal more Instagram-worthy. For an extra flavor boost, try seasoning your sweet potato fries with herbs like rosemary or thyme.

6. Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A Cool Side Dish for Your BLT

A light and refreshing cucumber salad is an excellent choice for hot summer days. Thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a tangy vinaigrette create a cool and crisp side dish that balances the richness of the bacon in your BLT.Moreover, cucumber salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute addition to your meal. Its low-calorie content also makes it an ideal choice for those watching their waistline. To add more depth to the salad, consider incorporating fresh herbs like dill or mint, which can complement the flavors of your BLT beautifully.

7. Creamy Avocado Dip

Creamy avocado dip complements a BLT sandwich perfectly, adding a rich, velvety texture that enhances the overall eating experience

Elevate your BLT experience with a side of creamy avocado dip. This smooth and flavorful dip not only complements a sandwich but also adds a dose of healthy fats to your meal. Serve with tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.Avocado dip, often known as guacamole, brings a rich, creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the crispiness of the bacon in your BLT. Additionally, the healthy fats in avocados can help you feel fuller for longer, making your meal more satisfying. For an extra kick, try adding some diced jalapenos or a splash of hot sauce to your avocado dip.

8. Crispy Onion Rings

For a more indulgent option, crispy onion rings make an excellent companion to your BLT. The crunchy exterior and sweet, tender interior of the onion rings provide a delightful contrast to the sandwich’s textures.While onion rings are certainly a treat, they can be made healthier by baking them instead of frying. This method still produces a crispy exterior while reducing the overall fat content. Furthermore, onion rings can be seasoned with various spices to complement your BLT, such as paprika, garlic powder, or even a touch of cayenne for some heat.

For those seeking a nutritious option that compliments a BLT sandwich, a protein-packed quinoa salad offers both flavor and health benefits

9. Quinoa Salad

A protein-packed quinoa salad is a nutritious and filling side dish that pairs well with BLT sandwiches. Mix cooked quinoa with diced vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and wholesome accompaniment.Quinoa salad not only adds a nutritional boost to your meal but also provides a variety of textures and flavors. The nutty taste of quinoa complements the savory elements of the BLT, while the added vegetables increase the overall nutritional value of your meal. Moreover, quinoa salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

10. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic and Parmesan cheese offer a savory and slightly crispy side dish that complements the flavors of a BLT. The caramelized edges of the sprouts provide a delicious contrast to the sandwich’s soft bread.Brussels sprouts have gained popularity in recent years due to their nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness while creating a crispy exterior. The addition of garlic and Parmesan adds depth to their flavor, making them an irresistible side dish. Furthermore, the strong flavors of the Brussels sprouts can stand up to the bold taste of bacon in your BLT, creating a well-balanced meal.

11. Classic Macaroni Salad

A creamy macaroni salad is a crowd-pleasing side dish that compliments a BLT sandwich perfectly. The combination of tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing creates a satisfying texture and flavor profile.Macaroni salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or even add some diced ham or chicken for extra protein. Additionally, macaroni salad can be made in large batches, making it perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Its creamy texture provides a nice contrast to the crispiness of the bacon in your BLT, creating a well-rounded meal.

12. Grilled Corn on the Cob

During summer months, grilled corn on the cob is an excellent choice to serve alongside your BLT. The smoky, charred flavor of the corn enhances the sandwich’s bacon, while the sweetness of the kernels balances the overall taste.Grilling corn not only imparts a delicious smoky flavor but also brings out its natural sweetness. You can experiment with different toppings for your corn, such as butter, salt, and pepper, or get creative with spices like chili powder or smoked paprika. Moreover, corn on the cob adds a fun, hands-on element to your meal, making it perfect for casual dining or backyard barbecues.

13. Caprese Skewers

For an Italian-inspired twist, serve Caprese skewers with your BLT. Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto small skewers, then drizzle with balsamic glaze. This light and flavorful side dish complements the sandwich beautifully.Caprese skewers not only taste delicious but also add a touch of elegance to your plate. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil mirrors some of the flavors in your BLT, creating a harmonious pairing. Furthermore, these skewers are easy to prepare in advance and can be served at room temperature, making them ideal for entertaining or picnics.

14. Homemade Pickles

Tangy, crunchy homemade pickles are an excellent complement to a BLT sandwich. The acidity of the pickles cuts through the richness of the bacon, creating a balanced flavor profile. Try making quick pickles with cucumbers, onions, or even carrots for variety.Making your own pickles allows you to control the flavors and ingredients, ensuring they pair perfectly with your BLT. You can experiment with different vinegars, spices, and vegetables to create unique flavor combinations. Additionally, homemade pickles are often lower in sodium and free from preservatives compared to store-bought varieties, making them a healthier choice.

15. Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges

For a healthier alternative to traditional fries, try roasted sweet potato wedges. Toss wedges with olive oil, salt, and your favorite herbs or spices before roasting until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory BLT.Sweet potato wedges offer a nutritious alternative to regular fries while still satisfying your craving for something crispy and flavorful. They’re rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a healthier choice. Moreover, their vibrant orange color adds visual appeal to your plate. You can experiment with different seasonings to complement your BLT, such as rosemary and garlic or a spicy chili blend.

Elevating Your BLT Experience

While these side dishes are excellent choices to complement a sandwich, there are also ways to elevate the BLT itself. Consider adding avocado slices for creaminess, using different types of bacon (such as maple-glazed or peppered), or experimenting with various bread options like sourdough or ciabatta.For those looking to try a unique twist on the classic BLT, our Salmon BLT Sandwich recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative. The addition of flaky salmon adds a new dimension of flavor and nutrition to this beloved sandwich.

Condiments to Enhance Your BLT

The right condiments can take your BLT from good to great. Here are some options to consider:

• Garlic aioli
• Chipotle mayo
• Pesto
• Honey mustard
• Sriracha mayo
• Herb-infused olive oil

Experiment with these condiments to find your perfect flavor combination and truly make your BLT shine.

Nutritional Benefits of a BLT with Side Dish

To help you make informed choices about your meal, here’s a table detailing the approximate nutritional benefits of a typical BLT sandwich with a side of potato chips:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	650-750
Protein	20-25g
Fat	40-45g
Carbohydrates	55-60g
Fiber	4-6g
Sodium	1000-1200mg
Vitamin C	15-20% DV
Iron	10-15% DV

Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

As we wrap up our exploration of what compliments a BLT sandwich, let’s address some common questions about pairing and enhancing this classic meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What pairs well with BLT sandwiches?

BLT sandwiches pair well with a variety of side dishes, including potato chips, coleslaw, fruit salad, tomato soup, sweet potato fries, cucumber salad, and macaroni salad. The key is to choose sides that complement the sandwich’s flavors and textures while providing a balanced meal.

How to elevate a BLT sandwich?

To elevate a BLT sandwich, consider these tips:

• Use high-quality, thick-cut bacon
• Choose ripe, heirloom tomatoes
• Opt for artisanal bread like sourdough or ciabatta
• Add avocado slices or a fried egg
• Experiment with different types of lettuce, such as arugula or butter lettuce
• Try unique condiments like garlic aioli or chipotle mayo

What condiments go well on a BLT?

While mayonnaise is the classic condiment for a BLT, there are many other options to enhance the flavor:

• Garlic aioli
• Chipotle mayo
• Pesto
• Honey mustard
• Sriracha mayo
• Herb-infused olive oil
• Dijon mustard
• Avocado spread

What compliments a sandwich?

Sandwiches, including BLTs, can be complemented by various side dishes:

• Chips or fries
• Fresh salads (green, fruit, or pasta-based)
• Soups
• Pickles or pickled vegetables
• Roasted or grilled vegetables
• Coleslaw
• Potato salad
• Fresh fruit
• Yogurt or cottage cheese

The best complement to a BLT sandwich depends on the sandwich’s flavors and your personal preferences. Aim for a balance of textures and tastes to create a satisfying meal. Whether you prefer light sides like a crisp salad or more indulgent options such as fries, there’s something for everyone. Experiment with different combinations to find your ideal pairing, and get creative with your BLT ingredients and condiments. A perfect complement can elevate your dining experience from a simple lunch to a memorable meal. The key is balancing flavors, textures, and nutritional value. Choose sides that contrast with or enhance the sandwich’s components for a well-rounded meal. Ultimately, the best pairing is the one that suits your personal taste. The beauty of a BLT lies in its simplicity. Sometimes, a classic BLT with chips is all you need for a delicious, satisfying meal. Enjoy the flavors!

Ultimately, the perfect pairings that compliment a BLT sandwich reflect personal taste, culinary creativity, and a desire for delicious satisfaction