Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon! This one is packed with flavor and texture, featuring crunchy broccoli, crispy turkey bacon, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for gatherings, whether you’re attending a summer barbecue or serving it at Thanksgiving. This salad stands out due to its delightful combination of ingredients that complement each other beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is always a hit at parties and family gatherings.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in just 35 minutes.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean turkey bacon, it’s a healthier choice.
- Versatile Dish: Great as a side or a light meal on its own; it suits various occasions.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance; flavors improve after chilling.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon a breeze. Here’s what you need:
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: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for even cooking and presentation.
- Whisk: Essential for blending the dressing smoothly without lumps.
Ingredients
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need for this delicious 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 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
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. It’s much easier, and there’s no splatter.
1. Cook the turkey bacon to your desired level of crispness.
2. Set aside on paper towels to cool.
3. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the turkey bacon cooks, mix together the ingredients for the dressing:
1. 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 (adds flavor without heat)
2. Whisk all the dressing ingredients together until smooth.
Step 3: Chop the Broccoli
Next, prepare your broccoli:
1. Using a chef’s knife, chop your broccoli into small florets.
2. If desired, save the stems by chopping them up and adding them to the salad.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add all salad components to the bowl with dressing:
1. Include all chopped broccoli.
2. Add in:
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Most of the turkey bacon, reserving some for garnish.
3. Stir everything together thoroughly.
Step 5: Serve
The salad can be served either at room temperature or chilled:
– If chilling 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 for about 5 days.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon!
How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe
This delicious Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is versatile and easy to serve. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or a holiday gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your dish and impress your guests.
As a Side Dish
- Pair this salad with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve it alongside burgers or hot dogs for a classic cookout vibe.
In a Picnic Basket
- Pack the salad in individual containers for easy serving during outdoor picnics.
- Include some whole-grain rolls or crackers for a complete meal.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Present the salad on a large platter for family-style serving.
- Complement it with other festive dishes to create a colorful buffet.
As Meal Prep
- Divide the salad into meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
- It keeps well in the fridge, making it great for busy days.
How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe
To make your Broccoli Salad even more delightful, consider these tips that add flavor and appeal.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality turkey bacon enhance flavor and texture.
- Adjust sweetness: Modify the sugar in the dressing according to taste preferences; you can use honey as an alternative.
- Add crunch: Incorporate additional nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Mix flavors: Experiment by adding diced apples or grapes for a sweet twist alongside cranberries.
- Make ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish creatively: Top with extra sunflower seeds or cheese just before serving for visual appeal.
Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe
This Broccoli Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and flavorful, it’s an ideal protein option that goes well with salads.
- Corn on the Cob: A sweet summer favorite that adds vibrant color and texture to any plate.
- Baked Beans: Rich and hearty, they provide a comforting balance to the fresh salad.
- Potato Salad: Creamy and filling, this classic dish is sure to be a crowd pleaser alongside your broccoli salad.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that still provides volume without overpowering the main dish.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful and nutritious, they can be filled with grains, meat, or cheese for added variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a broccoli salad can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the end result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the dressing prep: Many people underestimate the importance of making a well-balanced dressing. Always whisk together your dressing ingredients thoroughly for a uniform flavor.
- Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking Turkey Bacon too long can lead to a dry texture. Aim for crispy but not burnt pieces to enhance your salad’s flavor.
- Neglecting ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients like stale nuts or bland cheese will impact taste. Always select fresh and quality ingredients for the best results.
- Ignoring the broccoli size: Cutting your broccoli into uneven sizes can result in an inconsistent eating experience. Aim for uniformly small florets for a balanced bite.
- Serving immediately after mixing: Allowing the salad to chill lets flavors meld beautifully. If possible, let it sit for at least 20 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.
Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe
- Not Recommended: Freezing this salad is not ideal as it may alter the texture of the broccoli and other ingredients.
Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm gently in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through; usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently, until just heated; generally takes around 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I customize my Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe?
You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch!
Can I use regular bacon instead of Turkey Bacon?
Absolutely! Regular bacon will add a different flavor profile but works well if you prefer it over Turkey Bacon.
What is the best way to serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon?
This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings!
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the Turkey Bacon and consider adding chickpeas or avocado for added protein.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving if it’s been chilled.
Final Thoughts
The Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a unique side dish at Thanksgiving, this salad won’t disappoint! Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy its refreshing flavors!
Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon
Discover the ultimate Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon, a delightful blend of fresh broccoli, crispy turkey bacon, sweet cranberries, and a creamy dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. This salad is not only packed with flavor and texture but also offers a nutritious option for any occasion. Perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this crowd-pleaser will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 10–11 strips turkey bacon (cooked)
- 2 heads broccoli (1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip or mayonnaise
- Zest and juice from 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons white apple vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Dry mustard
- Cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook turkey bacon until crispy; chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix dressing ingredients in a large bowl until smooth.
- Chop broccoli into small florets and add to the dressing.
- Stir in cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, and most of the turkey bacon.
- Chill for about 20 minutes before serving; garnish with reserved bacon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding nuts or fruits like diced apples or grapes. For a vegetarian option, omit turkey bacon and use chickpeas for protein.
