Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

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!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon, cranberries, and cheese creates a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this satisfying salad in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this salad suits any occasion perfectly.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: It’s a hit at gatherings! Guests will rave about its unique taste and colorful presentation.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and dried fruits, this salad offers great health benefits without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe smoothly, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Chef’s knife
• Baking sheet (for turkey bacon)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: This is essential for combining all ingredients evenly without making a mess.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for broccoli and other vegetables, helping maintain their texture.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for cooking turkey bacon evenly in the oven, which prevents splatter and allows for crispiness.

Ingredients

• 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

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Bacon

Cook the turkey bacon using your preferred method. For less mess, baking it in the oven is recommended:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the turkey bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for about 15 minutes or until crispy.
4. Once cooked, set aside on paper towels to cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

While cooking the turkey bacon:
1. In a large bowl, combine:
– 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
– Zest from the lemon you prepared earlier
– 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 (this adds flavor without too much heat)
2. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix everything together:
1. Chop your broccoli into small florets using a chef’s knife.
2. If desired, chop the stems into smaller pieces as well.
3. In the large bowl with dressing, add:
– All chopped broccoli
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Most of the chopped turkey bacon (save some for garnish)
4. Gently stir until everything is coated in dressing.

Step 4: Serve Your Salad

This salad can be served immediately or chilled:
– If chilled, let it sit on the counter for about 20 minutes before serving.
– Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon!

Step 5: Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers:
– Store them covered in the fridge.
– This salad will stay fresh for about 5 days.

Enjoy your crowd-friendly Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a delightful side at dinner, this salad is sure to impress. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing option that’s perfect on its own.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for a balanced meal that highlights the flavors of both dishes.

On a Buffet Table

• This salad makes an excellent addition to any buffet, allowing guests to help themselves and enjoy it alongside other favorites.

With Crackers or Bread

• Offer crispy crackers or fresh bread on the side for a crunchy texture contrast that complements the creaminess of the salad.

At Picnics or Potlucks

• Bring this salad to picnics or potlucks for an easy crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Topped with Extra Ingredients

• Consider garnishing with additional sunflower seeds or cranberries right before serving for added visual appeal and crunch.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

To ensure your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide better texture and flavor than frozen options.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; everyone has different preferences!
• Add Variety: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Prepare this salad a day in advance. It tastes even better once the flavors have had time to combine.
• Garnish Creatively: Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives as a colorful garnish before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon pairs well with various side dishes, enhancing your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables adds vibrant colors and smoky flavors.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain dish adds protein and fiber while complementing the salad’s creaminess.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful crunch and sweetness that balances well with savory flavors.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty addition to your menu.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crisp roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a comforting side that’s always popular.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds refreshing sweetness, making it a perfect contrast to your savory broccoli salad.
7. Garlic Breadsticks: These soft and buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing from the salad.
8. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad adds freshness and crunch, pairing nicely with richer dishes like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is easy, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your dish.

• Bold phrase: Skipping the Turkey Bacon Prep – Don’t skip cooking the Turkey Bacon properly. Bake it for even crispness and flavor.
• Bold phrase: Overcooking the Broccoli – Avoid boiling broccoli for too long. Steam it lightly to keep it vibrant and crunchy.
• Bold phrase: Neglecting the Dressing Balance – Ensure you measure the dressing ingredients accurately for a well-balanced flavor.
• Bold phrase: Not Chilling the Salad – For best results, chill the salad before serving to let flavors meld together.
• Bold phrase: Ignoring Ingredient Freshness – Use fresh ingredients like cranberries and cheese for optimal taste and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture.
• If necessary, freeze components separately (like turkey bacon).

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and warm in a covered dish for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pan, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon.

Can I use different nuts or seeds in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to substitute sunflower seeds with walnuts or almonds based on your preference!

How can I make this salad healthier?

Consider using Greek yogurt instead of Miracle Whip or mayonnaise for a lighter dressing option.

What can I serve with Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it ideal for summer barbecues and gatherings.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just remember to chill it before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any occasion. Customize it further by adding nuts or swapping out cheese types. Give it a try, and enjoy a crowd-pleasing dish!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is a fresh and flavorful dish that brings together crisp broccoli, savory turkey bacon, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing for a delightful combination that everyone will love. This easy-to-make salad is not only perfect for summer barbecues but also makes a fantastic addition to holiday gatherings or potlucks. With a mix of textures and vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress your guests while providing nutritious benefits from its wholesome ingredients.

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Ingredients

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• 10–11 strips turkey bacon
• 2 heads broccoli (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1 and 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 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook turkey bacon on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes until crispy; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients: Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne.
3. Chop broccoli into small florets and add to the bowl along with cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheese, and most of the turkey bacon. Gently stir until well combined.
4. Chill for at least 20 minutes before serving or serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 25mg