Baked BLT Stuffed Avocados

Step 1: Bacon ... I like to use a thicker sliced bacon, and cut into a bit larger dice. Then, add them to a small non-stick pan (cold); and bring to medium heat. Slowly render the bacon until crisp. If you do this slowly, you will not need to add any oil. It should take around 7-10 minutes. Once they are crisp; transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain and cool. Reserve the drippings (probably 1 teaspoon if that).

Step 2: Bread ... I actually like to cut the bread in cubes; and leave on the counter all day or overnight to dry out. Using stale bread really works best for this recipe. Then, add the bread to a bowl along with any bacon drippings; and, a little extra oil (1 teaspoon), just to moisten - then, toss to coat. Only add more oil if the bread seems a bit dry. Then, add the bread to a sheet pan, lined with parchment paper; and, bake in a 400 degree oven, on the middle shelf for 7-10 minutes until lightly golden brown - to crisp up. Set to the side to cool. This can easily be made ahead of time; and, stored in a tupperware type of container, or ziploc bag.

Step 3: Avocado ... Cut the avocado in half, and remove the pit. Now, I like to scoop out, approximately half of the avocado flesh from each half. This will make room for the filling. Make sure to transfer the avocado you scooped out to a small bowl. Then, squeeze the entire lemon over the 4 halves, and the avocado you scooped out - this will prevent the avocado from browning. Cover tightly with plastic wrap until ready to serve.

Step 4: Filling ... In another bowl, add the mayonnaise, basil, a pinch of salt and pepper; and mix to combine. Add the toasted cooled bread, tomatoes, bacon, and 4 tablespoons of the cheese; and, toss lightly, until everything is combined. TOMATO NOTE: Tomatoes can really vary in size; so, I usually allow 12 tomatoes for this dish; so, even though you may buy 4-5 oz; please just use 12 grape tomatoes - they really work best.

Step 5: Garnish ... In the bowl with the avocado you scooped out; lightly mash until you get a smooth consistency. Then, add the scallions mix to combine.

Step 6: Salad ... Simply add the greens and cilantro to each plate; and drizzle very lightly with a little lemon juice and olive oil.

Step 7: Avocados and Bake ... Place the avocado halves on a sheet pan, lined with parchment paper or foil cut side down.; and, cook 4 minutes in a 400 degree oven. Remove from the oven, turn over; and, stuff with the salad, and top with the remaining cheese. Turn on the broiler; and bake another minute, just until the cheese melts. The avocados will be warmed; but, NOT cooked. FYI, any extra salad can be served on the side over the greens (there will be a big extra).

Step 8: Serve and ENJOY! ... Top each plate of salad with a baked avocado half; and, finish it with a dollop of the avocado/scallion mix on top. A fruit salad is the perfect side.

Step 9: It's definitely a nice brunch, lunch; or, a light summer dinner. Not your average weeknight dinner; but, a nice meal to entertain with. A nice brunch on fathers day or Valentines - a special lunch with friends, or a Ladies Luncheon, book club, etc.