Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

Traditional Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon, and raisins is a delightful dish that highlights fresh produce at its finest. This vibrant salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings, thanks to its crunchy texture and flavorful dressing. Combining the earthy flavors of broccoli and cauliflower with the sweetness of raisins and the savory notes from turkey bacon makes this recipe uniquely appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of only 20 minutes, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Fresh and Flavorful: Using fresh broccoli and cauliflower ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a light lunch option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its blend of textures and flavors makes it a hit at gatherings.
• Nutritious Mix: Packed with vitamins from the vegetables and healthy fats from mayonnaise and sunflower seeds.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon, and raisins, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure that your preparation goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottom pan or cast iron skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottom pan or cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for cooking turkey bacon perfectly without burning.
• Cutting board: A stable surface is essential for safely chopping vegetables.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables without crushing them.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

Traditional Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon, and raisins is a great way to enjoy chopped fresh broccoli florets and cauliflower florets at their peak freshness.

Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound Turkey Bacon (chopped and cooked crisp, 2 Tablespoons grease reserved – optional)
– 4 Cups broccoli (chopped about 1 head)
– 4 Cups cauliflower (chopped about 1 head)
– 3/4 Cup raisins (golden raisins are used in this recipe)
– 1/2 Cup finely diced red onion
– 1/3 Cup sunflower seeds (salted)
– 1 Cup Mayonnaise
– 3/4 Cup Sour Cream
– 2 Tablespoons vinegar
– 2 Tablespoons Sugar
– 1/2 Teaspoon salt
– 1 Cup cheese crumbles

How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a heavy-bottom or cast iron pan, cook the chopped turkey bacon until crisp. If desired, reserve some turkey bacon fat for use in the dressing.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the turkey bacon is cooking:
* Chop the raw broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
* Chop the head of cauliflower into florets.
* Finely dice the red onion.
* Break the sharp cheddar cheese into small pieces.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

Add all raw salad ingredients—broccoli, cauliflower, red onion, raisins, sunflower seeds, and cheese crumbles—to a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl:
* Combine sugar, salt, and vinegar.
* Whisk in mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.

Step 5: Mix Dressing with Salad

If using it, add reserved turkey bacon fat to the dressing. Then add cooked turkey bacon to the salad mixture. Toss everything together to combine.

Step 6: Add Dressing to Salad

Pour all prepared dressing over the broccoli salad. Stir well to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated with dressing.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Enjoy this refreshing dish chilled!

How to Serve Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

Serving Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon, and raisins is a delightful experience. This colorful dish pairs beautifully with various meal options and can be enjoyed in multiple ways.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad can be served alone as a light lunch or dinner, offering a wholesome mix of flavors and textures.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken for a deliciously balanced meal. The smoky flavor of the chicken complements the freshness of the salad.

On a Buffet Table

• This salad is perfect for gatherings. Its vibrant colors make it an attractive addition to any buffet spread, appealing to guests of all ages.

With Crackers or Breadsticks

• Serve the salad alongside crispy crackers or breadsticks for added crunch. This combination makes for a satisfying snack or appetizer.

As a Picnic Side

• Pack this salad for picnics. It’s easy to transport and tastes just as good cold, making it an ideal outdoor option.

How to Perfect Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

Perfecting your Amish broccoli salad involves attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish:

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli and cauliflower for the best texture and flavor. Fresh vegetables will enhance the overall taste of the salad.

• Chill Before Serving: For optimal flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This allows the dressing to meld with the ingredients.

• Customize Add-Ins: Feel free to add extra ingredients like chopped bell peppers or celery for additional crunch and flavor variations.

• Adjust Dressing Consistency: If you prefer a lighter dressing, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. It provides creaminess without being too heavy.

• Use Quality Mayonnaise: The quality of mayonnaise can significantly affect the taste. Choose a brand that you enjoy for the best results.

Best Side Dishes for Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

This hearty salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Consider these options when planning your meal:

1. Grilled Chicken Breasts – Simple and flavorful, grilled chicken adds protein and makes your meal more filling.

2. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn offers a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the salad while adding seasonal freshness.

3. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch that’s perfect alongside creamy salads.

4. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutritious grain option that adds texture and fiber; it’s light yet filling enough to serve with salads.

5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa create a beautiful presentation alongside your salad.

6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can balance out the richness of the broccoli salad while adding another layer of crunch.

7. Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread pairs well with almost any dish, offering comforting flavors and satisfying textures.

8. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad makes for a sweet contrast, rounding out your meal nicely while providing hydration and vitamins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon & raisins is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale ingredients: Fresh produce makes a big difference. Always choose crisp broccoli and cauliflower for the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the dressing preparation: Properly whisking together your dressing ensures an even coating. Don’t rush this step or you may end up with clumps.
• Overcooking turkey bacon: Aim for crispy but not burnt bacon. Keep an eye on it to achieve that perfect crunch without losing flavor.
• Ignoring seasoning: A pinch of salt can elevate the flavors of your salad. Don’t skip on seasoning; taste as you go!
• Not letting it chill: This salad tastes better when allowed to cool in the fridge for at least an hour. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Amish broccoli salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

• Freezing is not recommended due to the mayonnaise and sour cream. It may affect the texture once thawed.

Reheating Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon & raisins.

Can I make Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance and chilled overnight for enhanced flavor.

What can I substitute for turkey bacon?

You can use chicken bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version of this dish.

How do I customize my Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins?

Feel free to add other ingredients like diced apples or nuts for extra crunch and sweetness!

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Try feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile in your salad.

Final Thoughts

Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon & raisins is a delightful side dish that’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your tastes. Try adding your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours!

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

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Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the crispness of fresh vegetables with the sweetness of raisins and savory turkey bacon. This salad is perfect for any gathering, from picnics to potlucks, and is sure to impress your guests. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a delightful addition to your meal. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time. Enjoy it on its own or as a side to grilled chicken for a satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cups cauliflower florets
• 3/4 cup golden raisins
• 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
• 1/3 cup salted sunflower seeds
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Salt to taste
• Cooked turkey bacon (substitutable with chicken bacon)

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Instructions

1. In a heavy-bottom skillet, cook chopped turkey bacon until crisp; set aside.
2. Chop broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces, and dice the red onion.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, cauliflower, red onion, raisins, sunflower seeds, and cooked turkey bacon.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, and salt until smooth.
5. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving for best flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg