Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon! This delightful dish is packed with flavors and textures from Turkey Bacon, cranberries, cheese, sunflower seeds, and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s not just easy to make; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a festive side at Thanksgiving, this salad truly stands out on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The mix of crunchy vegetables, sweet cranberries, and savory Turkey Bacon creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, this salad is quick to whip up.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it chilled or at room temperature to suit any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious ingredients like broccoli and sunflower seeds, this salad is good for you too!
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck, this salad is sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Baking sheet (for Turkey Bacon)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cutting of broccoli and other veggies for even texture.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending dressing ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for the Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe:

• 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 of 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 an easier cleanup. Cook the slices until they reach your desired crispness, then set them aside on paper towels to cool. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the Turkey Bacon cooks, mix together the dressing ingredients in a large bowl:
* Add 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip or mayonnaise.
* Include zest from one lemon and one tablespoon of lemon juice.
* Add two tablespoons of white apple vinegar, one-fourth cup sugar, one and one-fourth teaspoons kosher salt, half a teaspoon black pepper, one-fourth teaspoon dry mustard, and one-eighth teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Whisk all ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Chop your broccoli using a chef’s knife. Aim for small florets so that every bite has just the right amount of broccoli. If you like, save the stems—chop them up and add them into the salad!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Bowl

Add all chopped broccoli to your large bowl with the dressing. Next, stir in:
* One cup of dried cranberries
* One-third cup roasted sunflower seeds
* One cup shredded cheddar cheese
* One-third cup chopped red onion
Add most of the chopped Turkey Bacon now but reserve some for topping later.

Step 5: Mix It Together

Stir everything together until well coated. You can serve this salad at room temperature or chill it in the fridge before serving. If chilling first, let it sit on the counter for about twenty minutes before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers covered in the fridge; this salad will keep well for about five days. Enjoy!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Broccoli salad with turkey bacon is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. It complements many meals and can be enjoyed at gatherings, picnics, or as a hearty side. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• A light lunch option: This salad makes for an excellent standalone meal when you’re looking for something fresh and filling.
• Perfect for picnics: Pack it in a container for a tasty addition to your outdoor meals.

With Grilled Meats

• Ideal pairing: Serve this broccoli salad alongside grilled chicken or steak for a balanced meal.
• BBQ favorite: Bring it to summer barbecues, where it complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats.

As a Side for Holiday Dinners

• Thanksgiving staple: This salad can add color and flavor to your holiday table.
• Potluck hit: It’s easy to transport and share at family gatherings or potlucks.

Chilled or Room Temperature

• Flexibility in serving: Enjoy this salad chilled from the fridge, or let it sit out for about 20 minutes before serving at room temperature.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Making the perfect broccoli salad with turkey bacon involves attention to detail and some handy tips. Here are some ideas to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Choose fresh broccoli: Fresh, vibrant broccoli florets make the salad more appealing and flavorful.
• Cook turkey bacon properly: Ensure the turkey bacon is crispy but not burnt; this adds texture and taste.
• Make dressing ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance so that the flavors have time to meld together.
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for at least an hour enhances its flavors and makes it more refreshing.
• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding ingredients like apples or nuts for extra crunch and flavor variation.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the dressing before mixing it with the salad, and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Pairing your broccoli salad with turkey bacon with other side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a lovely crunch and pairs well with the creamy texture of the salad.
2. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread contrasts nicely with the refreshing salad.
3. Baked Beans: Rich and savory beans provide a hearty balance to the lighter elements of your broccoli salad.
4. Coleslaw: This crunchy side brings additional textures and goes great with barbecue dishes.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add substance while enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella bring a burst of freshness that complements your main dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Turkey Bacon prep: Cooking your Turkey Bacon properly is crucial for flavor and texture. Always bake or pan-fry it until crispy for the best results.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with less dressing, adding more gradually until you reach your desired taste.
• Neglecting the broccoli size: Cutting broccoli into large pieces can result in uneven bites. Aim for small, bite-sized florets for a better eating experience.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect flavor. Opt for fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese for a richer taste.
• Not chilling before serving: Serving this salad immediately can miss out on flavor development. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will remain fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Keep any reserved Turkey Bacon separate to maintain its crispiness.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes of broccoli and dressing.
• If you must freeze, do so without the dressing and turkey bacon.
• Use freezer-safe containers if freezing any components separately.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil.
• Microwave: Place a portion of the salad in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed. This method helps retain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

What other ingredients can I add to my Broccoli Salad?

Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like diced apples, grapes, or nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Is this Broccoli Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad stores well and is great for meal prep. Just keep dressing separate until ready to eat.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute Greek yogurt for Miracle Whip or mayonnaise and use turkey bacon alternatives that are lower in fat.

Can I use fresh turkey bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular turkey bacon if you prefer. Keep in mind that it will change the nutritional values slightly!

Final Thoughts

The Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions—from summer barbecues to holiday dinners. Its combination of flavors makes it a crowd favorite. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or dressings! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!