Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe! This delightful salad is packed with flavors from turkey bacon, cranberries, cheese, and sunflower seeds, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. It’s easy to whip up and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering, from summer barbecues to Thanksgiving dinners. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This broccoli salad comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The mix of turkey bacon, cranberries, and cheese creates a delicious balance of savory and sweet.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues or holidays; this salad fits many occasions.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with nutritious broccoli and dried cranberries, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone goes back for seconds.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet (for turkey bacon)
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife helps chop broccoli and other ingredients quickly and efficiently.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients without spilling, crucial for salads.
• Whisk: Whisking the dressing ensures all ingredients are well combined for the best flavor.

Ingredients

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad! This one is stuffed with Turkey Bacon, cranberry, cheese, sunflower seeds, and tangy homemade dressing. It is easy to make and is a huge crowd pleaser. The perfect side dish to bring to your summer barbecue, or even to serve at Thanksgiving!

• 10-11 strips Turkey Bacon (cooked)
• 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds or 5-6 cups)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (roasted and salted)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion (or more to taste)
• 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
• Zest from 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white apple vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 & 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Start by making the turkey bacon. I highly recommend baking it in the oven for ease. Cook about 10-11 slices until crispy. Once done:
* Set aside on paper towels to cool.
* After cooling, chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the turkey bacon cooks:
* In a large bowl, combine:
– 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
– Zest from 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons white apple vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 & 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Whisk all ingredients together until smooth.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Prepare your broccoli by:
* Using a chef’s knife to chop into small florets.
* Optionally saving stems by chopping them finely as well.

Step 4: Mix All Ingredients

Add all prepared salad ingredients into the bowl with the dressing:
* Add chopped broccoli.
* Mix in:
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
– 1 cup cheddar cheese
– Most of the chopped turkey bacon (reserve some for garnish)

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Stir everything together until well-mixed. You can serve this salad:
* At room temperature or chilled—if chilling, let sit out for about 20 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers:
* Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This salad will keep fresh for about five days.

Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Serving your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is a chance to get creative! This dish pairs well with various meals and can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Side Dish at Barbecues

• Perfect for summer gatherings, this salad complements grilled meats beautifully. Its refreshing flavors balance the smoky notes of barbecue dishes.

In Lunch Boxes

• Pack this salad in your lunch for a nutritious meal option. It’s filling and travels well, making it an ideal choice for work or school.

On a Buffet Table

• This salad is vibrant and colorful, making it an eye-catching addition to any buffet spread. Guests will love the combination of flavors and textures.

With Grilled Chicken or Fish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. The creamy dressing enhances the protein while adding crunch from the broccoli and bacon.

Chilled for Hot Days

• Enjoy the salad chilled on hot days. Its coolness is refreshing and hydrating, perfect for picnics or outdoor events.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

To elevate your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon, consider these helpful tips that make all the difference in flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli retains its crunch better than frozen. Choose bright green florets for optimal taste.
• Crisp the Turkey Bacon: Bake the turkey bacon until crispy for added texture. Crispiness enhances each bite.
• Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste. Adding more lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This lets the flavors meld perfectly.
• Add Extra Crunch: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for additional crunch and flavor variations.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare this salad a day in advance. It tastes even better after sitting overnight as the ingredients combine beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this tasty salad well.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn adds a delightful contrast to the salad’s creamy texture.
2. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with salads, providing a comforting touch.
3. Coleslaw: A classic side, coleslaw complements the broccoli salad’s crunchiness while adding its own zing.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans offer a hearty contrast that balances lighter dishes like salads.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides another layer of comfort food appeal alongside your broccoli dish.
6. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings sweetness and color, enhancing both nutrition and visual appeal on your table.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and earthiness that rounds out your meal beautifully.
8. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and fiber, making it an excellent healthy companion to your meal choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Not cooking the Turkey Bacon properly: Cooking Turkey Bacon to your desired crispness is key. Under-cooking can lead to a chewy texture, while overcooking may make it too crispy. Bake for best results.

• Skipping the dressing: The dressing is essential for flavor. Don’t skip or skimp on any of the ingredients. Each element enhances the salad’s taste profile.

• Using large broccoli pieces: Chopping broccoli into small florets helps create a well-mixed salad. Large pieces can lead to uneven bites. Aim for uniformity in size.

• Not letting it chill: While you can serve this salad immediately, allowing it to chill for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Ignoring leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them correctly in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This salad can last up to five days in the fridge!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for about 5 days.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the vegetables and dressing.
• If necessary, separate components (broccoli, dressing) before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers if you decide to freeze any leftovers.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through; stir in between.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular bacon instead of Turkey Bacon?

Yes! You can substitute regular bacon if you prefer a different flavor and texture. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

How do I add more crunch to my Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe?

Consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for additional crunch and flavor alongside sunflower seeds.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You could use Greek yogurt instead of Miracle Whip or mayonnaise for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance; just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

What are some variations for this Broccoli Salad?

Feel free to customize by adding diced apples, grapes, or even shredded carrots for extra sweetness and color!

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. It makes an excellent side dish for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or dressings for a personal touch! Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!