Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey bacon! This one is stuffed with turkey bacon, cranberry, cheese, sunflower seeds, and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s easy to make and a huge crowd-pleaser. The perfect side dish to bring to your summer barbecue or even serve at Thanksgiving!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of turkey bacon, cranberries, and cheese creates a delightful burst of flavors in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it chilled or at room temperature; it’s great for any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and cranberries, this salad offers a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for potlucks or family gatherings; everyone will love this delicious twist on a classic salad.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A good knife makes chopping broccoli and other ingredients quick and easy.
• Large mixing bowl: Ensures you have enough space to mix all your ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for baking turkey bacon evenly without the mess of stovetop cooking.
• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly combining the dressing ingredients.

Ingredients

• 10-11 strips Turkey 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 turkey bacon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Bacon

Start by making the turkey bacon. I highly recommend baking it in the oven. It’s much easier and avoids splatter.
* Cook the turkey bacon until it reaches your desired level of crispness.
* Once done, set it aside on paper towels to cool.
* After cooling, chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

While the turkey bacon cooks, prepare the dressing.
* In a large bowl, combine:
– 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip or mayonnaise
– Zest from one 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
* Whisk all ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Prepare your broccoli while mixing the dressing.
* Use a chef’s knife to chop the broccoli into small florets.
* Optionally, save and chop the stems to include in the salad.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all salad ingredients into the bowl with dressing.
* Add:
– Chopped broccoli
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Most of the chopped turkey bacon (reserve some for topping)

Step 5: Mix Well

Gently stir everything together until well coated with dressing.
This salad can be served immediately or chilled. If chilling, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers covered in the fridge. This salad will keep for about five days. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Salad with Turkey bacon!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon Recipe

Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious salad.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced meal that enhances the flavors of both dishes.
• Serve alongside burgers or hot dogs at summer barbecues for a refreshing contrast.

At Potlucks and Gatherings

• This salad is perfect for potlucks; just bring it in a large bowl, and watch it disappear!
• Offer it as part of a buffet spread, where guests can choose their favorites.

For Lunch Meal Prep

• Divide into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Add some leafy greens or whole grain wraps to create a complete lunch option.

During Holidays

• Serve it as a festive side dish during Thanksgiving or Christmas, adding color and crunch to your table.
• It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon Recipe

Achieving the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon requires some simple tips. Follow these ideas for an even tastier salad.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Always choose fresh, vibrant broccoli for the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust The Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients based on your taste preferences; add more lemon juice for tanginess or reduce sugar if desired.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Add Crunch: Consider including other crunchy ingredients like chopped bell peppers or carrots for added texture and nutrition.
• Customize Your Add-ins: You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins or chopped apples for different flavor profiles.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon Recipe

If you’re looking to complete your meal, consider pairing your Broccoli Salad with these delightful side dishes.

1. Grilled Chicken Breasts – Juicy and flavorful, they are a classic protein choice that complements the salad well.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds depth and color to your plate.
3. Quinoa Pilaf – Nutty quinoa pilaf offers a healthy grain option that’s filling yet light.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness balances well with the savory elements in the salad.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled, corn adds sweetness and pairs nicely with the tartness of cranberries.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges make for a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the dressing prep: Many rush the dressing process. Always mix the dressing ingredients well before adding them to the salad for an even flavor.
• Neglecting broccoli size: Cutting broccoli into large pieces can lead to uneven bites. Aim for small florets so every bite is balanced.
• Overcooking Turkey turkey bacon: Cooking it too long can make it tough. Monitor closely and remove it when crispy but not burnt.
• Ignoring chilling time: Serving the salad immediately may result in less flavor. Chill it for at least 20 minutes or more for a refreshing taste.
• Not reserving toppings: Forgetting to set aside some Turkey turkey bacon for garnish can affect presentation. Always save some for the final touch.
• Using stale ingredients: Ensure your sunflower seeds and cranberries are fresh. Stale ingredients can diminish the salad’s overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• The salad will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon Recipe

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may affect texture and flavor once thawed.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and heat until warm, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon recipe:

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with any cheese you prefer, like feta or mozzarella, for a unique twist on flavor.

How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?

To make a vegan version, replace Turkey turkey bacon with plant-based alternatives and use vegan mayo for the dressing.

What other toppings can I add?

You can customize your salad with nuts, seeds, or even additional veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added crunch.

How do I store leftovers from Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon Recipe?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Turkey turkey bacon is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday gathering. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences by adding various toppings or substituting ingredients. Don’t hesitate; try this recipe today and enjoy its vibrant flavors!