BLT Bites

I love to entertain. The cocktail party is my favorite; it does not matter whether it is an intimate gathering or a large party, I delight in carefully planning a menu in which each appetizer complements one's cocktail of choice. The BLT Bites, scrumptious one bite wonders, pairs beautifully with any cocktail. These colorful jewel like appetizers explode with flavor and are simple to make. You may want to make a double batch; this delectable appetizer will disappear before your eyes.

                                                                      BLT Bites
                                                                    adapted from
                                                                foodnetwork.com
                                                              Giada De Laurentiis
                                            

 Ingredients

4 ounces bacon, chopped

3 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan

1 teaspoon mayonnaise

1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

pinch kosher salt

lettuce, shredded

6 to 8 cocktail or Campari tomatoes

Directions

Place the bacon in a small skillet; heat over medium heat until beginning to sizzle. Reduce the heat to medium low; cook until crisp and golden brown, about 8 minutes. With a slotted spoon, remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the fat in the pan.

Add the breadcrumbs to the hot bacon fat; cook, stirring often, until lightly toasted and crunchy, about 3 minutes. Remove the breadcrumbs to a separate paper towel-lined plate, spread evenly, and then sprinkle with the Parmesan to melt slightly.

With a rubber spatula, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice and salt in a bowl. Add the shredded lettuce; toss well to coat.

Cut a small amount off the bottom of each tomato to create a flat surface to sit on. Then cut off the tops as well. Run a small knife around the inside of the tomatoes to loosen the flesh. Using a 1/2-teaspoon measuring spoon, scoop out and discard the insides of each tomato.

Divide the bacon among the tomatoes, pushing it down slightly. Top with some of the lettuce, followed by the bacon-parmesan breadcrumbs. Serve at room temperature.

follow Anne on twitter and Instagram @AnneFretz