Simple Supper: Basil BLTs & Quick Roasted Tomato Gazpacho

There's an exchange between two budding love birds in Paper Hearts in a deserted little deli discussing the merits of the BLTs simplicity. They're like an implicit, understood code. Nice & easy, all you have to say is BLT & everyone knows just what you want: bacon, lettuce & tomato. With this ease in mind, I decided BLTs were in order. I added a bit of basil to dress up this classic, so BBLTs if you will. With easy 5 minute gazpacho as a sidekick, this soup & sandwich dinner is a perfect easy supper.

Basil BLTs, for 2

4 slices whole or sprouted grain bread

6 slices bacon

1 ripe roma tomato, sliced thinly

4 large romaine lettuce leaves

2 tbsp. soft goat cheese

4 - 6 large basil leaves

Cook the bacon until crisp in a skillet (or if you really want to shave some time off, in the microwave - on high for about 5 minutes). Let cool. If desired, toast the bread, then spread with goat cheese. Sandwich the bacon, basil, lettuce & tomatoes. Slice in half diagonally & enjoy!

Quick Roasted Tomato Gazpacho, for 2

1 16 oz. can diced tomatoes

1 roasted red pepper

1 small cucumber, cut in chunks

1/3 of a red onion, cut in chunks

1/4 tsp. cumin

1/8 tsp. pimenton

1/4 tsp. oregano

1 tsp. fresh cilantro, minced

2 cloves garlic

salt, to taste

pepper, to taste

In a food processor, puree all ingredients except the tomatoes. In a large bowl fold the vegetable puree into the diced tomatoes & their juice. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 45 minutes to an hour to let flavors meld. Garnish with a thin cucumber slice or two.

Kitchen to table time: 15 minutes