Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon! This dish combines fresh broccoli, savory turkey bacon, and a mix of sweet, crunchy, and creamy elements. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, holiday gatherings, or any potluck. With its vibrant flavors and textures, this salad is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon, cranberries, and cheddar cheese creates a delicious and satisfying dish.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal cooking time and is simple enough for anyone to make.
• Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s summer or Thanksgiving, this salad fits right in at any event.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and cranberries, this salad offers great nutritional benefits alongside flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for easy serving at your next gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet (for turkey bacon)
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A good knife ensures clean cuts for your broccoli and makes chopping quick and efficient.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing dressing ingredients thoroughly for an even flavor throughout the salad.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your 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

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 has no splatter.
Cook the turkey bacon until it reaches your desired level of crispness.
Set aside on paper towels to cool, then 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.
Combine 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, white apple vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper.
Whisk all the dressing ingredients together until smooth.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Prepare your broccoli while waiting for the bacon.
Use a chef’s knife to chop it into small florets.
You can also chop up the stems if you prefer to include them in your salad.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all salad ingredients into the bowl with the dressing.
Add chopped broccoli, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and most of the turkey bacon (reserve some for topping).

Step 5: Mix Together

Stir everything together gently. This salad can be served at room temperature or chilled.
If chilling first, allow it to sit on the counter for about 20 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Cover any leftovers in the fridge! This salad will keep well for about five days.

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 not only a feast for the eyes but also a fantastic addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a light yet satisfying main course.
• Add quinoa or brown rice as a base to make it more filling.

At Barbecues and Picnics

• Serve it cold as a refreshing side on hot summer days.
• Pack it in portable containers for easy transport to outdoor gatherings.

For Family Gatherings

• Present it in a large bowl, garnished with additional Turkey Bacon on top for an appealing look.
• Use it as part of a buffet spread alongside other salads and sides.

With Bread

• Serve with crusty bread or rolls to complement the creamy texture of the salad.
• Try it in sandwich form by adding it between slices of bread for a hearty lunch option.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy it chilled right from the fridge or let it come to room temperature before serving again.
• Mix in fresh ingredients like diced apples or nuts to refresh the flavors.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

To ensure your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets will enhance the taste and texture of your salad.
• Cook bacon until crispy: Crispy Turkey Bacon adds the perfect crunch and flavor contrast in every bite.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill helps meld the flavors together for an even better taste.
• Adjust dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients according to your taste preferences; more lemon juice can add extra tanginess.
• Mix ingredients gently: Stir carefully when combining the salad components to maintain some crunchiness in the broccoli.
• Store correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay fresh longer.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

This Broccoli Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here’s a list of options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a nice crunch and natural sweetness that balances well with the salad.
2. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the salad.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds another layer of texture and flavor, making your meal more robust.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains and proteins provide a nutritious side that enhances your spread.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit, offering heartiness alongside this light salad.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add sweetness after savoring savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin this delicious dish.

• Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: This can lead to a chewy texture. Bake it in the oven until it reaches your desired crispness for best results.
• Skipping the Dressing: The dressing adds flavor, so don’t skip it! Prepare it as instructed to enjoy the full taste of the salad.
• Not Chopping the Broccoli Properly: Large pieces can be hard to eat. Aim for small florets to ensure each bite is balanced and enjoyable.
• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Opt for high-quality cheese and fresh broccoli for the best flavor.
• Serving Immediately After Mixing: Letting the salad sit for at least 20 minutes allows flavors to meld together, enhancing taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for about 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes after thawing.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing and add when ready to serve.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and allow flavors to develop overnight.

What can I substitute for Miracle Whip in this recipe?

You can use mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier taste or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

Is this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe suitable for potlucks?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for potlucks due to its crowd-pleasing flavors and easy preparation.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for about 5 days when stored properly.

Can I add other ingredients to my Broccoli Salad?

Yes! Feel free to customize by adding nuts, fruits, or different cheeses based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe is perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures will impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients like nuts or different cheeses. Give it a try, and enjoy this versatile dish!