Description
This Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon is a vibrant, crunchy dish featuring fresh broccoli florets, crispy turkey bacon, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing made with Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, lemon, and spices. Perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing side dish, this salad balances savory, sweet, and zesty flavors with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 10-11 strips cooked turkey bacon
- 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds or 5-6 cups), chopped into small florets
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup roasted and salted sunflower seeds
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
Dressing
- 1 cup Miracle Whip or mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Turkey Bacon: Preheat your oven and bake the turkey bacon strips until they are crispy. Once cooked, chop them into bite-sized pieces and set aside some to use as a topping later.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the dressing bowl, then toss in dried cranberries, roasted sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and most of the chopped turkey bacon. Reserve a little bacon for garnish.
- Mix and Chill: Gently stir all ingredients until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Baking turkey bacon produces a crispier texture and less mess compared to frying.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavors and softens the broccoli slightly without losing crunch.
- Can be prepared a few hours ahead, but add sunflower seeds just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the cheddar cheese or substitute with a non-dairy cheese alternative.
- This salad pairs well with grilled dishes or as a hearty side for picnic meals.
