Avocado BLT Sandwich

Ingredients

• 8 slices bread (I use sourdough)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for pan)
• 4 leaves green lettuce (rinsed and patted dry)
• 2 medium ripe avocados (sliced)
• 2 large heirloom tomatoes (or regular tomatoes)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 clove fresh garlic, grated
• 1/2 a lemon, juiced (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (or Italian parsley)

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the candied bacon: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a bowl, combine the maple syrup with cayenne pepper (adjust amount to taste). On a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper, arrange the bacon in a single layer. Brush with the maple and cayenne glaze on both sides. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.

2. 2

   Tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes and arrange them on a plate in a single layer. Drizzle generously with olive oil, and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

3. 3

   Aioli: Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine all the aioli ingredients until evenly combined. Set aside.

4. 4

   On a griddle or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toast the bread on one side only until golden brown and slightly toasted.

5. 5

   Assemble: Start with a slice of toasted bread, followed by some aioli, lettuce, marinated tomatoes, spicy maple bacon, avocado slices, and bread spread (one side spread with the aioli).

6. 6

   Serve with a side salad or fries. Enjoy!