Blt Salad - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 lb sliced bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup butter, cubed
4 slices white bread, crusts removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup mayonnaise
3 -5 tablespoons minced fresh basil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
6 cups torn romaine lettuce
1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes

Preparation

In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove to paper towels; drain, reserving 2 tablespoons drippings. Set bacon and drippings aside.
In another large skillet, melt butter. Add bread cubes; cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring frequently. Remove to paper towels; cool.
For dressing, in a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, basil, vinegar, pepper, garlic and reserved drippings. In a large bowl, combine the romaine, tomatoes and bacon. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat. Top with croutons.