Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Turkey ! This delicious dish is loaded with flavor, featuring crispy turkey , sweet cranberries, creamy cheese, and crunchy sunflower seeds. It’s an easy-to-make side that shines at summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. With its vibrant colors and tangy homemade dressing, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of turkey, cranberries, and cheese offers a delightful sweet and savory balance.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at picnics, barbecues, or family dinners—it’s suitable for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and other nutritious components, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Make Ahead Option: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Broccoli Salad with Turkey effectively, having the right tools can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet (for turkey)
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A good knife ensures you can chop vegetables evenly and safely.
• Large mixing bowl: Ample space allows you to mix all ingredients without spillage.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending dressing ingredients thoroughly for a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad! This one is stuffed with Turkey , cranberry, cheese, sunflower seeds, and tangy homemade dressing. It is easy to make and is a huge crowd pleaser. The perfect side dish to bring to your summer barbecue or even to serve at Thanksgiving!

Main 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)

Dressing Ingredients

• 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
• 1 lemon zest
• 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

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. It’s much easier with no splatter. Cook 10–11 slices of turkey until crisp. Set aside on paper towels to cool. Chop into bite-sized pieces once cooled.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the turkey cooks, mix together your dressing ingredients. In a large bowl, combine:
* 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

Whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Chop your broccoli using a chef’s knife into small florets. If you like, save the stems by chopping them up to include in the salad.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In your large bowl with dressing:
Add in:
* All chopped broccoli
* 1 cup dried cranberries
* 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
* 1 cup cheddar cheese
* Most of the turkey (reserve some for topping)

Step 5: Mix and Serve

Stir everything together until well combined. You can serve this salad at room temperature or chill it first. If chilling, let it sit out for about 20 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers covered in the fridge! This salad will keep well for about five days.

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

Serving your Broccoli Salad with Turkey is an enjoyable experience, perfect for gatherings or family dinners. This salad can be served in various ways, enhancing its flavors and presentation.

Make it a Main Dish

• Adding grilled chicken or shrimp can turn this salad into a hearty main dish, providing extra protein and flavor.

Pair with Grilled Foods

• This salad complements grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. The freshness of the broccoli and tangy dressing balances out the smoky flavors.

Serve as a Side at BBQs

• Bring this salad to your next barbecue. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with burgers, hot dogs, and other grilled favorites.

Garnish for Extra Flair

• Sprinkle some additional sunflower seeds or chopped herbs on top before serving for added crunch and color.

Offer in Individual Portions

• For parties, serve the salad in small cups or jars. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy without needing plates.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

To ensure your Broccoli Salad comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and crisp turkey enhance the salad’s taste and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Feel free to modify the dressing ingredients based on your preference; you might want it sweeter or tangier.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Add nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch, or toss in some diced apples for sweetness.
• Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Just mix everything but the until ready to serve to keep it fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

Pairing your Broccoli Salad with Turkey with complementary side dishes can elevate any meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn complements the tanginess of the salad.
2. Baked Beans: A classic side that adds a hearty element and pairs well with barbecue flavors.
3. Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw contrasts nicely with the creamy broccoli salad, adding another texture.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes bring earthiness that balances out the fresh ingredients in your salad.
5. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad offers another refreshing option that can be customized with various veggies.
6. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese provides comfort food appeal alongside your crunchy salad.
7. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables cooked on the grill offer robust flavors that pair wonderfully together.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit medley adds brightness and sweetness that contrast nicely with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Broccoli Salad with Turkey , it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.

• Not cooking the Turkey properly: Undercooked or overcooked can affect the salad’s flavor. Bake the until crispy but not burnt for optimal taste.
• Using old broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for this salad. Look for bright green florets and crisp stems to ensure your salad tastes its best.
• Skipping the dressing whisking: Failing to mix the dressing thoroughly can result in uneven flavor. Always whisk until smooth and well combined before adding it to the salad.
• Overloading on ingredients: Adding too many toppings can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor profile that highlights each component.
• Serving immediately after mixing: Letting the salad sit improves the flavors. Chill it for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow everything to meld together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: This keeps your Broccoli Salad fresh.
• Consume within 5 days: Enjoy your leftovers while they are still flavorful.
• Keep away from strong odors: Broccoli can absorb smells from other foods in the fridge.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

• Not recommended for freezing: The texture of broccoli and other ingredients may become mushy once thawed.
• Consider freezing only individual components: If you need to store, freeze turkey separately and add fresh ingredients when ready to serve.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10 minutes. This helps retain texture.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium-low heat, warm gently while stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Broccoli Salad with Turkey ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for Turkey ?

If you prefer, regular  or even a vegetarian option like tempeh or tofu can work well as substitutes in this recipe.

How do I make my dressing less tangy?

To reduce tanginess, simply decrease the amount of vinegar or sugar to suit your taste preferences.

Can I add other vegetables to this Broccoli Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding bell peppers, carrots, or even peas for added color and nutrition.

Is this Broccoli Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It makes an excellent meal prep option. Just store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Broccoli Salad with Turkey Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd favorite at summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or using different types of cheese! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful freshness!

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

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Broccoli Salad with Turkey

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Broccoli Salad with Turkey is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings. Packed with crispy turkey , sweet cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and creamy cheddar cheese, this salad strikes a delightful balance between savory and sweet. The tangy homemade dressing adds an extra zing, making it a sure crowd-pleaser. Not only is it quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, but it also keeps well in the fridge for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its vibrant flavors all week long.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 10–11 strips turkey
• 2 heads broccoli (approx. 1.5 pounds)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
• 1 lemon zest
• 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
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook turkey in the oven until crisp; chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients: Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper.
3. Chop broccoli into small florets and add to the bowl along with cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheese, and most of the turkey.
4. Mix well until combined; chill for at least 20 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg