Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon! This one is stuffed with turkey bacon, cranberries, 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

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip this salad up in under 35 minutes.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of crispy turkey bacon, sweet cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds creates a delightful flavor explosion.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for any occasion—barbecues, picnics, or holiday gatherings.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from broccoli and enhanced by wholesome ingredients like sunflower seeds and cranberries.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon, having the right tools on hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Baking tray
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A good knife ensures clean cuts for even-sized broccoli florets, enhancing both texture and presentation.
• Large mixing bowl: Having ample space for mixing all ingredients prevents spills and makes tossing easier.
• Whisk: This tool helps combine dressing ingredients thoroughly for a smooth consistency.

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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
• 1 lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white grape juice 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

Start by cooking the turkey bacon. Baking it in the oven is highly recommended for an easy cleanup.
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Arrange the turkey bacon strips on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
* Bake until crispy, about 15 minutes.
* Once cooked, place on paper towels to absorb excess grease and let cool. Chop into bite-size pieces.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

While the bacon cooks, prepare your dressing in a large bowl.
* Combine 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise, zest from 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 tablespoons white grape juice vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
* Whisk together until fully mixed.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

Now it’s time to add your fresh ingredients into the bowl with the dressing.
* Chop your broccoli into small florets using your chef’s knife. You can also chop the stems if you prefer.
* Add all chopped broccoli to the dressing along with:
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/3 cup chopped red onion
– Most of the chopped turkey bacon (reserve some for garnish).

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Gently stir all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with dressing.
* You can serve this salad at room temperature or chill it in the fridge before serving. If chilling, let it sit out for about 20 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Store Leftovers

Any leftovers should be covered and stored in the fridge. This salad will stay fresh for about five days. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon is a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a family dinner, this salad can fit right in. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad works beautifully on its own as a light lunch or dinner option. The combination of flavors and textures makes it satisfying.

On a Buffet Table

• Perfect for gatherings, this salad adds color and nutrition to any buffet spread. Guests will love the crunchy sunflower seeds and savory turkey bacon.

With Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or lamb to create a balanced plate. The salad’s tangy dressing complements the smoky flavors of grilled foods.

At Picnics and Potlucks

• Pack this broccoli salad in a portable container for outdoor events. It’s easy to transport and tastes great even after sitting out for a while.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

To make your Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon truly exceptional, consider these handy tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh broccoli and high-quality turkey bacon. This ensures better flavor and texture in your salad.

• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients according to your taste preferences. Adding more lemon juice can provide extra brightness.

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps meld flavors together. A 20-minute sit at room temperature before serving enhances taste.

• Add Variety: Consider adding other ingredients like sliced almonds or diced apples for added crunch and sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

Pairing your Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon is key to creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some side dishes that complement it perfectly:

1. Grilled Chicken: Seasoned simply with salt and pepper, grilled chicken provides protein without overpowering the salad’s flavors.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds earthiness that balances the salad’s tanginess.

3. Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa pilaf introduces nutty flavors and pairs well with the crispy elements of the broccoli salad.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty option that contrasts nicely with the lighter salad.

5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings summer vibes to your table and complements the tangy notes of the broccoli salad beautifully.

6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an inviting side dish that everyone loves.

7. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze create an elegant bite-sized treat that pairs wonderfully.

8. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks infused with garlic flavor offer a comforting addition next to your vibrant broccoli salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the Dressing Preparation: Many people rush and skip making the dressing. Don’t forget that this is what brings all flavors together! Take your time to mix it well.
• Using Overcooked Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can ruin the texture. Blanch it only until bright green and tender-crisp for the best results.
• Neglecting Ingredient Measurements: Eyeballing ingredients can lead to an unbalanced salad. Always measure out your ingredients for consistent taste.
• Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving the salad immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
• Forgetting About Texture Variety: A lack of different textures can make the salad boring. Incorporate crunchy elements like sunflower seeds or nuts for added crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of fresh ingredients like broccoli and cheese.
• If you must freeze, consider omitting fresh ingredients before freezing, then add them when ready to serve.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread out the salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a pan while stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I make this Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just remember to chill it in the refrigerator before serving!

What can I use instead of turkey bacon?

You can substitute turkey bacon with cooked chicken or beef bacon if desired. Each will add a unique flavor profile.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize my Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients such as nuts, different cheeses, or additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe is not only easy to make but also a crowd favorite. Its vibrant colors and textures make it perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings. Customize it by adding your favorite ingredients, and enjoy a delicious side dish that everyone will love!