Crunchy and Flavorful Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon (Easy and Irresistible Broccoli Salad Recipe)

Looking for a salad that packs a punch of flavor while still feeling light and refreshing? Say hello to this delightful Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon! Bursting with vibrant colors and textures, this salad is a harmonious blend of crunchy broccoli, sweet dried cranberries, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy dressing that tantalizes your taste buds. Each bite is a party of flavors, making it the perfect dish to share at your next summer barbecue or holiday gathering!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is not just another side dish; it’s an explosion of deliciousness! Here’s why you’re going to adore it:

– Big, Bold Flavors: The sweet cranberries and savory bacon create an irresistible flavor combination that everyone will love.
– Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is always a hit, whether you serve it at a family picnic or a fancy holiday dinner.
– Flexible & Fast: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste and whip it up in just 35 minutes!
– Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for prepping in advance; it tastes even better after the flavors meld together!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather everything you need for this scrumptious Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon! The ingredients are simple, yet they come together to create something truly special.

Get ready to embrace the flavor game-changers like the crunchy sunflower seeds and the tangy homemade dressing that ties it all together.

– 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

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon lies in its versatility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty ideas:

– Go Gluten-Free: Ensure your mayo is gluten-free and you’re good to go!
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some chopped grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
– Make it Spicier: Amp up the heat with a pinch more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
– Swap the Dressing: Try yogurt for a lighter dressing, or add herbs for an extra layer of flavor!
– Cheese it Up: Mix it up with other cheeses like feta or pepper jack for a delightful twist!

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Ready to create this delightful dish? Follow these simple steps to whip up your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon!

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for a splatter-free experience! Bake those turkey bacon strips until they reach your desired level of crispiness (about 15 minutes works wonders). Once cooked, place them on paper towels to cool, and then chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

While the turkey bacon is sizzling, grab a large bowl and combine the dressing ingredients. Add 1 & 1/4 cups of Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, zest from the lemon, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 tablespoons white apple vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar, and all the spices: 1 & 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy!

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

Using a chef’s knife, chop the broccoli into small florets. If you love the crunch of broccoli stems, feel free to include them, too! The goal is to create bite-sized pieces that are easy to eat.

Step 4: Combine Salad Ingredients

Toss the chopped broccoli into the bowl with the dressing. Add in the dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, and the majority of your turkey bacon, saving a little for garnish later. Mix everything until the broccoli is well-coated in that delicious dressing.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

This salad can be enjoyed right away or chilled in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes for those flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve it at room temperature or cold—both ways are delectable!

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Any leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

To elevate your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon to the next level, keep these pro tips in mind:

– Bacon Crispiness: Bake your turkey bacon for an easy, mess-free cooking experience that keeps bacon crispy!
– Prep Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately for maximum freshness!
– Toss Gently: When mixing, toss gently to avoid bruising the broccoli—keeping it crisp is key!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra sunflower seeds or crispy turkey bacon on top right before serving for a beautiful finish.

Side Dishes

Pair this fantastic salad with grilled chicken, a light quinoa dish, or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in individual cups for a fun presentation at parties, or arrange it on a large platter for a shared family meal. You could even pack it in lunchboxes for a delightful midday treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Broccoli Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days, letting you enjoy the flavors for longer!

Freezing

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dressing separately. The broccoli and other ingredients don’t freeze well, so assemble them fresh before serving.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If you’ve chilled it, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to bring it back to optimal deliciousness!

FAQs

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Absolutely! Use your favorite type of bacon for that smoky flavor, but be cautious of the grease!

How do I make this gluten-free?
Ensure that the mayonnaise and any other additional ingredients you use are gluten-free.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! This salad actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a while, allowing all those flavors to mingle.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not really! The cayenne pepper adds a subtle warmth, but if you prefer no heat, simply omit it.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s sure to be the star of your table. With its combination of fresh ingredients, sweet and savory notes, and a creamy dressing, it’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors! So, why wait? Roll up your sleeves and make this delightful salad that’s perfect for any occasion—you’ll be so glad you did!