Put a baking rack over a parchment paper lined tray and arrange the bacon slices across the rack - do not overlap. In small bowl combine the syrup and cayenne and brush the bacon generously with the mixture. Put in the oven and bake until cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes. Set aside until ready to use.
For the Summer Salad:
In a large bowl, add the vinegar, honey, Dijon and lime zest and juice and whisk to combine. While whisking, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to make a dressing. Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside until ready to use.
For the bruschetta:
In large saute pan, add the olive oil, cayenne and garlic. When the garlic has browned, remove it and discard. Add the bread slices, in batches if necessary, and cook until browned on both sides. You may need to add more olive oil to the pan if the bread soaks up too much. Remove to sheet tray and set aside until ready to plate the dish.
For the Zesty Olive Spread:
Add all the ingredients to a food processor and pulse until pureed and smooth. Check for seasoning and set aside until ready to use.
Assembly:
Put 2 pieces of bread on each plate. Spread the zesty olive spread on top of the bread. Lay 1 piece of bacon on each bread slice and top with the summer salad. Repeat with remaining bread and toppings.
Cook’s Note
Inspired by the movie Julie and Julia - if you have seen it, you will know what scene I am talking about!!!!! This is meant as a light summer dinner! Knife and fork required!
Tools You May Need
A viewer or guest of the show, who may not be a professional cook, provided this recipe. It has not been tested for home use.
Tools You May Need
Price and stock may change after publish date, and we may make money off
these links.
By entering your email address, you agree to our Terms of Use
and acknowledge the Privacy Policy.
Food Network and
its affiliates
may use your email address to provide updates, ads, and offers.
To withdraw your consent or learn more about your rights, see the
Privacy Policy.