Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese

Classic Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese is an easy and simple side dish that everyone will love! This salad is perfect for parties, picnics, potlucks, and barbecues. With its delightful combination of textures and flavors, this salad stands out as a refreshing and satisfying option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be made in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of crunchy broccoli, savory turkey bacon, sweet raisins, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a delicious balance.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or make it the main event at your next gathering; it fits any occasion!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and lean proteins, this salad is both tasty and nutritious.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk: Helps in mixing the dressing smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful salad, you will need the following ingredients:

Fresh Ingredients

• 1 head broccoli, with leaves trimmed off
• 8 slices turkey bacon, cooked until crispy
• 1/2 cup red onion, chopped

Dried Fruits

• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

Dairy

• 8 ounces sharp cheddar, cut into very small chunks

Dressing Components

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Begin by washing the broccoli thoroughly. Trim off any tough leaves and chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet and let it cool before chopping into small pieces.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, turkey bacon pieces, red onion, raisins, dried cranberries, and cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl. Toss everything together until all components are evenly coated with dressing.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

For optimal flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese!

How to Serve Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese

This Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese is a delightful and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced meal.
• Pair with roasted vegetables to create a colorful plate.

In a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the salad for a fresh and crunchy handheld meal.
• Add some sliced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad over mixed greens like spinach or arugula for added texture.
• Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to enhance the flavors.

As Part of a Potluck Table

• Place the salad in an attractive bowl to draw attention at potlucks.
• Offer serving spoons for easy self-service.

How to Perfect Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese

To make your Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad even more delicious, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your salad is perfectly balanced and flavorful.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always choose fresh broccoli and high-quality turkey bacon for the best taste.
• Adjust sweetness: Customize the amount of sugar based on your preference; some might enjoy a sweeter salad while others prefer it tangy.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a smoky flavor.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – Lightly seasoned quinoa provides a hearty yet healthy addition to your meal.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the salad’s savory notes, perfect for summer barbecues.
4. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness that balances out the saltiness of the turkey bacon.
5. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar offers creamy dressing that contrasts well with the textures in your main dish.
6. Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread provides a comforting touch that rounds out any meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese is simple, but small mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Using raw broccoli: Always steam or blanch your broccoli briefly before mixing it into the salad. This enhances its color and texture.
• Overcooking turkey bacon: When cooking turkey bacon, ensure it is crispy but not burnt. Burnt turkey bacon can ruin the taste of your salad.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper. A well-seasoned dish enhances all flavors.
• Not chilling the salad: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors together wonderfully.
• Ignoring texture balance: Be mindful of how you chop ingredients. Aim for uniform pieces to create a balanced texture throughout the salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese

• It’s best not to freeze this salad as it may affect the texture of the broccoli and cheese.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.

Reheating Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pan, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese.

Can I use other types of cheese in this salad?

You can certainly substitute other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda if you prefer different flavors.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of my Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese?

Consider adding nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch, or diced apples for a fruity twist!

How long does Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese last in the fridge?

This salad can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it holds well in the fridge and tastes even better after resting.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese is not only delicious but also versatile. Its combination of flavors makes it a great side dish for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or fruits for added flair!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Broccoli Turkey Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese is a delightful, colorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering or as a quick meal at home. This vibrant salad combines crunchy broccoli, savory turkey bacon, sweet raisins, and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a refreshing flavor profile that everyone will love. Ideal for potlucks, barbecues, or picnics, this easy-to-make salad can be prepared in just 25 minutes. It’s nutritious and customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients while keeping it healthy. Enjoy the satisfying blend of textures and tastes that make this salad a standout option.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 head broccoli
• 8 slices turkey bacon
• 1/2 cup red onion
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; cool and chop.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, turkey bacon, red onion, raisins, dried cranberries, and cheddar cheese.
4. Whisk together mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
5. Pour dressing over salad ingredients and toss until evenly coated.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg