Fried green tomatoes add a tangy, crispy twist to the classic BLT that you might not have tried before. I discovered this Southern gem when I had a surplus of green tomatoes from my garden, and it’s become a favorite ever since. The combination of smoky bacon, fresh lettuce, and that zesty crunch is hard to beat. If you’re looking to elevate your sandwich game, this recipe might just be the surprise you’re craving.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Fried Green Tomato BLT recipe brings a delightful twist to a classic sandwich. You’ll love the perfect balance of textures and flavors it offers.
- Crispy, tangy fried green tomatoes replace traditional slices for a unique twist.
- The smoky bacon and fresh lettuce complement the tomatoes beautifully.
- A creamy, zesty spread ties everything together for a mouthwatering experience.
Recipe
The Fried Green Tomato BLT is a Southern-inspired twist on the classic BLT, featuring crispy, tangy fried green tomatoes paired with smoky bacon, fresh lettuce, and creamy mayo on toasted bread. This hearty sandwich combines contrasting textures and flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large green tomatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp
- 8 slices bread, toasted
- 4 large lettuce leaves
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- In a shallow dish, pour the buttermilk. In another dish, mix cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk, then coat evenly with the cornmeal mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated tomato slices until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Spread mayonnaise on each slice of toasted bread. Layer lettuce, bacon, and fried green tomatoes between the bread slices.
- Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately.
Notes:
For added flavor, try spreading a spicy aioli or adding a slice of cheese to the sandwich. Make sure the oil is hot before frying to prevent the breading from absorbing excess oil.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serving:
Makes 4 sandwiches
Calories:
Approximately 450 calories per serving
Cuisine:
Southern, American
Equipment
To make the perfect Fried Green Tomato BLT, you’ll need a few essential tools to guarantee everything comes together seamlessly. Having the right equipment on hand will make the preparation process efficient and enjoyable.
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Paper towels or a cooling rack
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Tongs or spatula for frying
- Plate for assembly
Nutrition
Fried Green Tomato BLT offers a blend of savory flavors and essential nutrients. This dish combines crispy fried green tomatoes with classic BLT ingredients for a satisfying meal.
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving.
- Protein: 10 grams from bacon and bread.
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams primarily from tomatoes and bread.
- Fiber: 3 grams from tomatoes and lettuce.
- Fat: 15 grams mainly from bacon and frying.
- Sodium: 500 mg contributed by bacon and seasoning.
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin C and K from tomatoes and greens.
- Antioxidants: Lycopene from tomatoes supports heart health.
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I make a Fried Green Tomato BLT, I love pairing it with something fresh, like a crisp side salad or seasonal fruit, to balance the flavors. A bowl of classic soup, like tomato or chicken noodle, feels cozy and completes the meal. Sometimes, I’ll add comforting potato dishes or a light vegetable medley for a hearty touch.
Side Salad Options
The Fried Green Tomato BLT is already a standout dish, but pairing it with the right side salad can turn it into a full, satisfying meal. I love tossing together fresh greens with aromatic dressings like lemon vinaigrette or basil pesto. Adding crunchy toppings, like toasted almonds or crispy croutons, keeps things interesting. It’s a simple way to balance the richness of the sandwich while letting your creativity shine.
Classic Soup Pairings
While a crisp side salad works beautifully with a Fried Green Tomato BLT, there’s something extra cozy about serving it with a warm bowl of soup. I love pairing it with classic soups like creamy tomato basil or chunky vegetable—they balance the tangy crunch perfectly. For lighter summer soups, chilled gazpacho or cucumber dill adds a revitalizing touch. It’s all about creating a meal that feels complete, yet totally freeing.
Fresh Seasonal Fruits
Nothing brightens up a Fried Green Tomato BLT like a side of fresh seasonal fruits—it’s a combo that’s both invigorating and satisfying. I love mixing fruit varieties like juicy watermelon, sweet peaches, or crisp apples, depending on what’s in season. These seasonal flavors add a revitalizing balance to the savory sandwich, and they’re so simple to prepare. It’s a light, vibrant touch that feels like a little freedom on your plate.
Comforting Potato Dishes
Pairing a Fried Green Tomato BLT with some comforting potato dishes always feels like hitting the jackpot in my kitchen. I love how potato variations, like crispy roasted wedges or creamy mashed potatoes, add that extra layer of warmth to the meal. They’re the ultimate comfort food, balancing the tangy crunch of the sandwich. Plus, they’re so versatile, you can’t go wrong!
Light Vegetable Medleys
When I’m craving something fresh to balance out the richness of a Fried Green Tomato BLT, I turn to light vegetable medleys. Zucchini noodles tossed with lemon and olive oil feel invigorating and free, while roasted carrots, caramelized and slightly sweet, add cozy warmth. These sides keep things light but satisfying, letting the BLT shine while giving me the veggie fix I need. Perfect harmony!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Regular Tomatoes Instead of Green Tomatoes?
I’d use regular tomatoes, but there’s a flavor comparison to bear in mind—they’re sweeter and juicier than green ones. Texture differences matter too; they’re softer, so they might not hold up as well in certain dishes.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Freedom tastes best when it’s unbound, and I’ve found that gluten-free alternatives open doors to limitless creativity. If I’m crafting this dish, I’d swap traditional bread for gluten-free bread, ensuring it’s as free as my spirit.
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Green Tomato BLT?
I’ll store leftovers by wrapping them tightly in foil or placing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When reheating, I’ll use an oven or toaster oven for proper reheating, ensuring it stays crispy and delicious.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely, I can make this recipe vegan by using plant-based substitutions. I’ll swap bacon for tempeh or coconut bacon, mayo for a vegan version, and guarantee the bread’s vegan. Vegan alternatives let me enjoy it freely.
What’S the Best Bread to Use for This Sandwich?
I’d choose a sourdough so epic it feels like it’s been baked by giants. For me, bread toasting is non-negotiable—it’s gotta crunch like autumn leaves underfoot, giving that sandwich a texture that sets my soul free.
