BLT Salad with Cheese and Almonds

This salad is delish! I am always looking for good combinations of stuff to throw into a green salad. This one is definitely a winner. As I was eating it for the first time, I couldn't help but think how much Dad would like it, so I had to share!

Dressing:
Juice of 1 lemon
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
3/4 cup canola or olive oil

Salad:
2 heads romaine lettuce
4 ounces bacon, cooked and diced
2 cups grape tomatoes
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
2/3 cup sliced or slivered almonds
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Croutons

1. To make the dressing, whisk the lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Slowly add the oil in a steady stream and continue to whisk. Cover and let stand until ready to use.

2. Tear the lettuce into small pieces into a large salad bowl. Add the bacon, tomatoes, Swiss cheese, and almonds. Toss with the dressing and Parmesan cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper and garnish with the croutons. Serve immediately.