Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe! This vibrant dish combines crunchy broccoli with savory turkey bacon, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing, making it perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. Its unique blend of flavors and textures will please any crowd, while its simple preparation ensures you can whip it up in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together quickly, making it a breeze for busy cooks.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of turkey bacon, cheese, and cranberries creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique flavors make it a favorite at potlucks and family gatherings.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with nutrients from broccoli and healthy fats from sunflower seeds.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools to help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for easily chopping broccoli into bite-sized florets.
• Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: This tool ensures your dressing ingredients are thoroughly mixed for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

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: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Start by making the turkey bacon. I highly recommend baking it in the oven. It’s much easier, and there’s no splatter. Cook the turkey bacon until crisp, then set 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 ingredients for the dressing. In a large bowl, add:
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

Whisk all the dressing ingredients together.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Chop your broccoli using a chef’s knife into small florets. You can also include chopped stems if desired.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all chopped broccoli to the large mixing bowl with the dressing. Then add:
1 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup sunflower seeds
1 cup cheddar cheese
Most of the turkey bacon (reserve some for topping)

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Stir everything until well combined. This salad can be served room temperature or chilled. If you choose to chill it first, let it sit on the counter for about 20 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers covered in the fridge! This salad will keep fresh for about five days.

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

This tasty Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is not only a crowd-pleaser but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Standalone Salad

• Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing dish that can stand on its own.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal. The flavors complement each other beautifully.

At Potlucks or BBQs

• Bring this salad to gatherings as it’s easy to transport and always a hit among guests.

As a Side for Holiday Meals

• This salad makes an excellent side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas, adding color and crunch to your festive table.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Creating the perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon requires a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and crispy turkey bacon will enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for balance.
• Let It Chill: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors together.
• Customize Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or additional veggies according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Looking for complementary dishes? Here are some excellent choices that pair well with Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken skewers marinated in herbs and spices make a delicious main course alongside the salad.
2. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor; grill it or boil it for a classic summer side.
3. Baked Beans – A hearty dish that brings a comforting sweetness, perfect for balancing the salad’s tangy flavors.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide satisfying crunch and are easy to prepare.
5. Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread complements any meal, adding richness and aroma that enhances your dining experience.
6. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness, making it a perfect contrast to the savory broccoli salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Undercooking the Turkey Bacon: Make sure your Turkey Bacon is cooked until crispy for the best flavor and texture. Baking it in the oven is a great way to achieve this without mess.

• Ignoring Broccoli Size: Chopping your broccoli into large pieces can lead to awkward bites. Aim for small florets to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the salad.

• Skipping the Dressing Whisk: Not whisking the dressing thoroughly can leave clumps of ingredients. Mixing well ensures an even coating on the salad, enhancing its taste.

• Forgetting Flavor Balance: Adding too much sugar or vinegar can overpower the salad’s natural flavors. Taste as you go, adjusting slowly for a balanced dressing.

• Serving Too Cold: Serving this salad straight out of the fridge can mute its flavors. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to enhance the taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe will keep for about 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its ingredients, which may not thaw well.
• If you must freeze, consider separating ingredients that don’t freeze well, like cheese or dressing.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Use low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious salad:

What makes this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe special?

This recipe combines crispy Turkey Bacon with crunchy broccoli and sweet cranberries, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone loves!

Can I use regular bacon instead of Turkey Bacon?

Yes! You can substitute regular bacon if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed to achieve your desired crispness.

How long does it take to prepare this salad?

The total time for preparation and cooking is about 35 minutes, making it a quick option for any meal or gathering.

Is there a way to make this Broccoli Salad healthier?

You can reduce sugar or use Greek yogurt instead of Miracle Whip or mayonnaise for a lighter dressing that still tastes great!

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe is an appealing option for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday dinners. Its versatility allows for customization; feel free to add other ingredients like apples or nuts based on your preferences. Try it today and enjoy the delicious flavors!