Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe! This delightful salad is packed with crispy turkey , sweet dried cranberries, creamy cheese, and crunchy sunflower seeds. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or serving up sides at Thanksgiving, this salad is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-pleaser: This broccoli salad is a hit at gatherings, making it a go-to choice for parties.
• Quick preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Healthier alternative: Featuring turkey and fresh ingredients, this recipe offers a tasty yet nutritious option.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish or make it the star of your lunch with added protein.
• Easy customization: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment helps streamline the cooking process and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping broccoli and other ingredients quick and safe.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all the ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for cooking turkey evenly without splatter.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 10-11 strips Turkey (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
– 1 lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons white apple vinegar 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Turkey

Start by making the turkey .I highly recommend baking it in the oven as it’s much easier and reduces splatter.
* Cook 10-11 strips of turkey until they reach your desired level of crispness.
* Set aside on paper towels to cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the turkey cooks, mix together the ingredients for the dressing in a large bowl.
* Add 1 and 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 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
* Whisk all the dressing ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Prepare your broccoli while making the dressing.
* Use a chef’s knife to chop broccoli into small florets; I prefer smaller pieces for better texture.
* Optionally save and chop up some stems to add to your salad.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Add all chopped broccoli to the bowl with the dressing.
* Stir in 1 cup dried cranberries, 1/3 cup sunflower seeds, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/3 cup chopped red onion.
* Mix in most of the turkey but reserve some for topping right before serving.

Step 5: Serve

Once everything is combined, you can serve immediately or chill it first. If choosing to chill:
* Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers covered in the fridge. This salad will last about five days if kept properly.

Enjoy this delicious Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe at your next gathering!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

Serving the Broccoli Salad with Turkey  is simple and can be tailored to fit various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or attending a potluck, this salad is sure to impress.

As a Main Dish

• Serve this salad as a light main dish for lunch. The protein from the turkey makes it satisfying enough to stand alone.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats or sandwiches. The crunchy texture complements the richness of dishes like barbecue chicken or pulled pork.

At Potlucks or Gatherings

• This salad is perfect for potlucks. Its vibrant colors and delicious flavors will attract everyone’s attention at the buffet table.

Chilled or Room Temperature

• Enjoy this salad cold from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving. Both ways enhance its flavors.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top the salad with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor and color. It adds a gourmet touch without much effort.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

To ensure your Broccoli Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh florets provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones.
• Crisp turkey: Bake your turkey until crispy for the best crunch in each bite.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust dressing ingredients: Feel free to tweak sugar and vinegar amounts based on your taste preference.
• Add crunch elements: Consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch; they enhance both flavor and texture.
• Include seasonal ingredients: Feel free to incorporate seasonal fruits like apples for added sweetness and variety.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

When serving the Broccoli Salad with Turkey, complement it with other delightful side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs make a great pairing.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a summery feel that works well alongside this refreshing salad.
3. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad brings comfort and pairs nicely with the crunchy broccoli.
4. Caprese Salad: The fresh mozzarella and tomatoes in Caprese add brightness to your meal.
5. Baked Beans: Rich, savory baked beans offer a hearty contrast to the lightness of the broccoli salad.
6. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread provides a delicious, buttery complement that everyone loves.
7. Fruit Salad: A fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out the savory elements of your meal.
8. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers another crunchy option that enhances any barbecue spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Broccoli Salad with Turkey , it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring the crispness: Undercooked Turkey can lead to a chewy texture. Ensure it’s cooked to your liking before adding it to the salad.
• Skipping the dressing preparation: Many people try to combine ingredients without mixing them first. Whisking the dressing ingredients separately ensures a uniform flavor throughout the salad.
• Using large broccoli florets: Large pieces can make the salad difficult to eat. Cut broccoli into small florets for better bite-sized pieces.
• Not letting flavors meld: Serving immediately after preparation can miss out on flavor enhancement. Chill the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving for improved taste.
• Neglecting ingredient freshness: Using stale or old ingredients can ruin your dish. Always check the freshness of your cranberries, cheese, and other components before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Broccoli Salad with Turkey in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Make sure it is completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes in broccoli and dressing.
• If necessary, you can freeze without dressing and add it fresh later.
• Consume within 1-2 months if frozen.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, stir until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Broccoli Salad with Turkey recipe unique?

This recipe stands out due to its combination of crunchy textures from sunflower seeds and , along with sweet dried cranberries that balance the flavors beautifully.

Can I customize my Broccoli Salad with Turkey recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different nuts, fruits like apples or grapes, or swap out turkey for regular based on your preferences.

How long does it take to prepare this Broccoli Salad with Turkey?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes while cooking the turkey adds an additional 15 minutes. In total, expect around 35 minutes from start to finish.

Is this Broccoli Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep. Just remember to keep it stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Turkey is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a side dish for barbecues or family gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings! Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!