Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that steals the show, this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe is just what you need! Packed with crunchy broccoli, sweet dried cranberries, and crispy Turkey Bacon, it’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This salad is not only a crowd-pleaser but also super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or bringing it to Thanksgiving dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite!

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy it fresh out of the bowl or let the flavors mingle in the fridge for a bit. It fits right into any occasion, ensuring your loved ones will always come back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With just a few easy steps, you can have this delicious salad ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of sweet and savory ingredients makes it appealing to both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of broccoli, cranberries, and cheese make this salad a feast for the eyes too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one contributes to making this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon  Recipe deliciously satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

• 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)

For the Dressing

• 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
• Zest from 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white grape juice 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

Variations

This Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Different Nuts: Try swapping sunflower seeds for chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
• Mix Up the Cheese: Use feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy twist.
• Incorporate Fresh Fruits: Add diced apples or pears for an added layer of sweetness.
• Try Other Greens: Spinach or kale can be great substitutes if you want to change up the greens!

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Start by making the Turkey Bacon first. I highly recommend baking it in the oven—it’s so much easier and keeps your kitchen splatter-free! Cook those 10-11 slices until they reach your desired crispness. Once cooked, let them cool on paper towels before chopping them into bite-sized pieces. This adds a savory crunch that perfectly complements the fresh veggies.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While your Turkey Bacon cooks away, whisk together all those tasty dressing ingredients in a large bowl. Combine 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, white grape juice vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper. Mixing these together creates a creamy dressing that’s bursting with flavor—don’t worry about the cayenne; it’s there for flavor without heat!

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Now it’s time for some broccoli magic! Grab your chef’s knife and chop those two heads of broccoli into small florets. I prefer smaller pieces so every bite is balanced with all other ingredients. If you’re feeling adventurous, chop up some of the stems too—they’re nutritious and add extra texture!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In that same big bowl with your dressing, toss in all your chopped broccoli along with dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and most of your crispyTurkey Bacon (save some for topping!). Mix everything gently until well combined—this is where all those fantastic flavors come together.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

You can serve this salad right away at room temperature or chill it in the fridge for about 20 minutes to let those flavors mingle even more. If you do chill it first, remember to take it out about 20 minutes before serving so it’s not too cold.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Leftovers!

If there are any leftovers (which may be unlikely!), store them covered in the fridge. This salad will keep well for about five days—perfect for meal prep!

Now grab your fork and dig into this delightful Broccoli Salad withTurkey Bacon Recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Making the perfect Broccoli Salad can be a breeze with just a few handy tips! Here are some pro suggestions to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and crunchy sunflower seeds not only enhance the flavor but also add a satisfying texture to your salad. Freshness makes a big difference in taste!
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference for sweetness, feel free to adjust the sugar in the dressing. This allows you to customize the salad to match your taste or dietary needs.
• Chill for Flavor: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delicious.
• Turkey Bacon Alternatives: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using crispy chickpeas or tempeh Turkey Bacon  as a substitute for traditional bacon. These alternatives provide that needed crunch without compromising on flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar cheese is fantastic, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like feta or crumbled goat cheese. Each variety brings its own unique flavor and can change up the profile of your salad!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Presenting your Broccoli Salad beautifully can make all the difference at any gathering! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds a fresh burst of color and flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the salad.
• Extra Sunflower Seeds: A handful of extra roasted sunflower seeds sprinkled on top not only enhances visual appeal but also adds extra crunch and nuttiness.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy grilled chicken skewers seasoned with your favorite spices can complement this salad beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal that’s great for summer barbecues.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy and nutritious side dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it an excellent pairing that adds heartiness alongside your vibrant broccoli salad.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob is a classic side that complements almost any summer meal. Its sweetness balances well with the tangy notes in the salad.
• Caprese Salad: A light Caprese salad featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides a refreshing contrast that harmonizes wonderfully with the robust flavors of broccoli and Turkey Bacon.

Enjoy serving this delicious Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon at your next gathering—it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time, making it an easy addition to your lunch or dinner plans throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for about 5 days.
• If you have added bacon, consider storing it separately to maintain its crispiness.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the ingredients after thawing.
• Instead, enjoy fresh or refrigerated leftovers!

Reheating

• If desired, let the salad sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.
• There’s no need to reheat; this salad tastes great cold or at room temperature!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe without Turkey Bacon?

Absolutely! You can replace the Turkey Bacon  with crispy chickpeas or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative that still offers a satisfying crunch.

How long does the Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe last in the fridge?

This salad will last for about 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep any crispy toppings separate until serving.

Can I use different nuts or seeds in this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe?

Yes, feel free to swap out sunflower seeds for your favorite nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds for a different flavor profile!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe a try! It’s not only vibrant and packed with flavor but also incredibly versatile and perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as part of your meal prep, I’m certain you’ll love how easy and delicious it is. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share your experience!