The Ultimate California Grown BLT Sandwich - California Grown

Ingredients

• 1 pound bacon (opt for thinner slices rather than thick.)
• 1 small eggplant (see note)
• 1/2 tablespoon black pepper (optional)
• 1 /2 cup raw pistachios
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 cup chopped grilled asparagus (see note)
• 1 cup basil leaves
• 1 lemon (zest and juice divided)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 slices bread (toasted)
• 4 cups arugula (lightly dressed with your favorite salad dressing, we like ranch.)
• 1/2 cup sprouts (optional)
• 1 very large heirloom tomato (sliced into thick slabs)