Nostalgia in a Sandwich

I don't remember BLTs ever being a favorite of mine, but in college I had to make-do with very little. I lacked the funding, equipment, passion and time to create lavish dishes. BLTs were easy and a healthier option. Since then, BLTs have truly become a nostalgic meal for me-humbling and delicious. The above photo is an advanced BLT, quite LAVISH, if you will.

Here are the ingredients used: bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, balsamic vinegar and the usual spice-combination. I roasted my tomatoes with the magical combination of olive oil, gar lice, salt and pepper, but made sure not to let the tomatoes become too mushy (I cooked them half as long as usual). 

I chose to roast the tomatoes this time to give the sandwich a more sophisticated taste, and I highly encourage the roasting to those of you who have time to tweak your BLT. I prefer to use turkey bacon, but I'm an "icebox cook," using up whatever is in the refrigerator-in this case, maple bacon. For the bread, I went Italian and lightly spread olive oil on the slices and toasted before sandwich construction.

Something about the BLT sandwich is comforting to me. While others associate BLTs with childhood, this sandwich will always produce the flavor of more recent years, about becoming an adult. Even when the struggle is real, your tummy can be satisfied. Work with what you've got and don't be afraid to get creative.

Bon appetit!