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The TLC Sandwich

A delicious twist on America’s classic BLT, the TLC (Tomato, Lettuce,Carrot-Bacon) sandwich is a healthy lunch- or snack-time treat. Use organic when possible.
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Ingredients
  

  • 1 large or 2 small tomatoes (try red and yellow!), sliced thick (about ⅜-inch) and seasoned with salt and pepper
  • 4 large lettuce leaves (butter lettuce is softand pretty), rinsed and dried
  • 4 large carrots (it’s easier to cut thick ones)
  • 1 sweet onion (or mix in a sassy purple), sliced ¼-inch thick
  • 4 slices whole-grain bread (Ezekiel and Dave’s Killer Bread are personal favorites), lightly toasted
  • 2 tbsp smoked maple syrup (or regular if you can’t find smoked)
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder (or more to taste)
  • ¼ tsp onion powder (or more to taste)
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika (or more to taste)
  • black pepper (to taste)
  • 4 tbsp vegan mayo

For Garnish and Extra Flavor Pop:

  • arugula
  • cilantro
  • your favorite herb

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F.
  • Use a vegetable peeler to peel the carrots lengthwise into strips of “bacon.”
  • Mix the syrup and spices in a bowl big enough for marinating the carrots. (To kick it up, sprinkle in some black pepper.)
  • Add carrot strips to the marinade and toss around, rest, toss again, repeat. Allow to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Place carrots on a cookie sheet that has been sprayed lightly with oil.
  • Pour the leftover marinade on top (or drink it like my husband does).
  • Place the pan in the oven and turn carrots every five minutes or so until done (10 to15 minutes). Note: thinner strips have a shorter cooking time, thicker take longer.
    ·      Watch carefully as the carrots are quick to burn.
    ·      Reminder: Carrots will harden more (like candy) when out of the oven and resting. This is what gives them the “crunch” of crispy bacon.
  • Remove carrots from oven. Lather the lightly toasted bread with vegan mayo, 1 tablespoon per slice.
  • Layer tomato, onion, and lettuce, and then pile on the carrots. When you think you have enough, add another handful of bacon—I mean carrots. You’ll thank me.
  • Top with arugula, cilantro, or your favorite herb (if desired), add the remaining bread slice, and cut in half. If you can eat your TLC whole, it’s not big enough!
  • Serve with a side of carrot bacon for the ultimate TLC. It is really that good.