Crispy and creamy, this Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw is a delightful blend of flavors that will elevate any meal. Perfect for cookouts, picnics, or as a topping on your favorite burger or hot dog, this coleslaw stands out with its rich taste and unique ingredients. Enjoy the crunch of fresh cabbage complemented by savory turkey bacon and tangy blue cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of blue cheese and turkey bacon creates a savory profile that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dish: Whether served as a side or used as a topping, this coleslaw fits perfectly into various meals.
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish quickly for unexpected guests.
- Crowd-Pleasing Side: Ideal for gatherings, this coleslaw is sure to be a hit at parties and barbecues.
- Rich in Texture: The combination of crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing makes every bite satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some tools you may need for preparing the Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Frying pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Knife: A sharp knife helps you chop vegetables easily and safely.
- Frying pan: Necessary for crisping the turkey bacon to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Coleslaw Base
- 3-4 slices Turkey Bacon (diced)
- 1 small green cabbage (cored and thinly shredded)
- 1/4 small red cabbage (shredded)
- 1 carrot (grated)
For the Dressing
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For Garnish
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 green onions (sliced)
How to Make Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw
Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon
Cook diced turkey bacon in a frying pan over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrot. Toss gently to mix.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Cabbage with Dressing
Add about half of the dressing to the cabbage mixture. Stir well to coat all the vegetables. Continue adding dressing until the desired consistency is reached; you might not need all of it.
Step 5: Add Blue Cheese and Green Onions
Gently fold in crumbled blue cheese and sliced green onions into the coleslaw mixture until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Top with Turkey Bacon
Sprinkle cooked turkey bacon on top of the coleslaw just before serving for added crunch. Enjoy!
How to Serve Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw
This flavorful Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or simply looking for a delicious side, this slaw complements many dishes.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside BBQ ribs to add a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
On Burgers
- Use it as a topping on your favorite burger for an extra layer of flavor.
- Try it on turkey burgers for an exciting twist on a classic dish.
With Sandwiches
- Add a generous scoop to pulled pork or chicken sandwiches for added crunch.
- Use it in wraps for a delightful crunch and creaminess.
As a Snack
- Enjoy it with tortilla chips as a tasty dip.
- Serve it at picnics in small cups for easy snacking.
How to Perfect Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw
To elevate your Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your coleslaw is fresh, flavorful, and enjoyable.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and vegetables make all the difference in taste and texture.
- Prep Ahead: Prepare the coleslaw a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before mixing; feel free to adjust the salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Crisp Turkey Bacon: Ensure that the Turkey Bacon is crisp for the best texture contrast in your slaw.
- Experiment with Cheese: If you love blue cheese, try adding more or mixing in other types of cheese for variety.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness longer.
Best Side Dishes for Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw
When planning your meal, consider these fantastic side dishes that pair well with Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw. Each option adds its unique flair to the table.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer vibes and complements the slaw perfectly.
- Baked Beans: A hearty classic that adds sweetness and depth to your meal.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides another comfort food option that balances the slaw’s crunch.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up juices from grilled meats, offering a satisfying carb addition.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that cuts through rich flavors while adding natural sweetness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies provide great flavor and nutrients, making them an excellent side choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw can be a delight, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Ignoring the Cabbage Ratio: Using too much or too little cabbage can throw off the texture. Aim for equal parts green and red cabbage for a balanced crunch.
- Overdressing the Slaw: Adding too much dressing makes the coleslaw soggy. Start with half the dressing and add more as needed until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Neglecting to Chill: Serving coleslaw immediately can result in flavors that haven’t melded properly. Always refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Skipping Flavor Enhancers: Forgetting seasonings like garlic or onion powder can dull the flavor. Don’t skip these; they elevate your coleslaw immensely.
- Not Pre-Cooking Turkey Bacon Properly: Undercooking Turkey Bacon can lead to a chewy texture. Ensure it is crispy for the best bite in your slaw.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure to keep it chilled until ready to serve.
Freezing Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw
- Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes.
- If necessary, freeze only the cabbage mixture without dressing.
- Thaw in the refrigerator and add dressing just before serving.
Reheating Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread coleslaw on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place coleslaw in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, warm coleslaw gently while stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon in Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw?
Yes, you can substitute regular bacon if you prefer. Just cook it until crispy and crumble it into the slaw.
How long does Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw last in the fridge?
The coleslaw lasts up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I customize my Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like apples, nuts, or other cheeses for added texture and flavor variations.
Is Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Always check labels if you’re concerned about cross-contamination.
Final Thoughts
Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s a flavorful addition that complements any meal beautifully. Its creamy texture paired with crispy bacon makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it with different ingredients or toppings based on your preferences! Give this slaw a chance at your next gathering; you won’t regret it!
Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw
Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw is a creamy and crunchy side dish that will elevate your meals with its delightful flavors. Combining crispy turkey bacon, fresh cabbages, and tangy blue cheese, this coleslaw is perfect for cookouts, picnics, or as a topping for burgers and sandwiches. Its rich taste and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With just 20 minutes of prep time, this versatile dish can complement grilled meats or stand alone as a refreshing snack. Prepare it ahead of time to let the flavors meld, and enjoy a delicious twist on traditional coleslaw!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings
Ingredients
- Turkey bacon
- Green cabbage
- Red cabbage
- Carrot
- Sour cream
- Mayonnaise
- Garlic powder
- Blue cheese
Instructions
- Cook diced turkey bacon in a frying pan over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrot. Toss gently.
- In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and pepper until blended.
- Add half the dressing to the cabbage mixture; stir to coat. Adjust with more dressing as needed.
- Fold in crumbled blue cheese and sliced green onions.
- Top with cooked turkey bacon just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use fresh vegetables for the best texture and flavor. Prepare ahead to allow flavors to develop. Feel free to customize with additional ingredients like apples or nuts.
