Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon and Raisins

Traditional Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon, and raisins is a delightful dish that brings freshness and flavor to any meal. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish at family dinners. The combination of crunchy vegetables, sweet raisins, and savory turkey bacon creates a unique taste that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Flavorful: The blend of fresh broccoli and cauliflower with savory turkey bacon offers a delicious twist on traditional salads.
• Versatile: Perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings; it complements various main dishes effortlessly.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from the veggies and healthy fats from the dressing, this salad is both tasty and good for you.
• Make Ahead: This salad stores well in the fridge, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Before starting your Amish broccoli salad, gather these essential items.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottom pan or cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for crisping the turkey bacon perfectly.
• Chopping knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to chop veggies evenly.
• Large mixing bowl: Ensures there’s enough space to toss all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending the dressing smoothly without lumps.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Traditional Amish broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe is a great way to enjoy chopped fresh broccoli florets and cauliflower florets at the peak of their freshness and flavors.

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 pan or cast iron skillet, cook the chopped turkey bacon until crisp. Reserve turkey bacon fat if using it in the dressing.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the turkey bacon is cooking:
1. Chop the raw broccoli into small florets.
2. Chop the head of cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.
3. Finely dice the onion.
4. Break cheese into small crumbles.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

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

Step 4: Make the Dressing

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

Step 5: Add Turkey Bacon Fat (Optional)

If using it in your dressing, add reserved turkey bacon fat to the mixture from step four.

Step 6: Toss Together

Add cooked turkey bacon to the vegetables in the large bowl. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 7: Dress the Salad

Pour all prepared dressing over the broccoli salad mixture. Stir thoroughly until all vegetables are evenly coated.

Step 8: Chill Before Serving

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve for optimal flavor enhancement.

Enjoy your delicious Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins as a refreshing side dish!

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

Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins is a delightful dish that can complement various meals. Its fresh flavors and crunchy textures make it a great addition to any dining experience.

As a Refreshing Side Dish

• Serve chilled alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair it with hearty sandwiches for a satisfying lunch spread.

At Potlucks and Gatherings

• Bring this salad to potlucks where it will be a hit among guests.
• Offer it as part of a buffet spread that includes other salads and main dishes.

With Picnic Favorites

• Enjoy this salad at a picnic with fresh fruits and artisan bread.
• It pairs well with cold cuts or wraps for an easy outdoor meal.

As Meal Prep

• Store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
• This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.

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

To achieve the best results with your Amish Broccoli Salad, consider these essential tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh broccoli and cauliflower provide the best crunch and flavor.
• Customize your dressing: Adjust the vinegar and sugar ratio to suit your taste preferences.
• Add extra crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts or seeds for more texture and flavor.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheese varieties like feta or blue cheese for unique flavor profiles.

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

Amish Broccoli Salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken pieces grilled on skewers make a delicious protein addition.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn enhances any summer meal while adding vibrant color to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a healthy grain option that balances the richness of the broccoli salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and zucchini offer warmth and earthiness alongside the cool broccoli salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or turkey create a hearty side that complements lighter dishes.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs add comfort food appeal without overpowering the salad’s freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon, and raisins can be simple, but certain mistakes can impact its final taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh broccoli and cauliflower for the best flavor. Stale or frozen vegetables can make the salad taste bland.
• Overcooking Turkey Bacon: Cook your turkey bacon until crisp but not burnt. Overcooking can result in a tough texture that doesn’t blend well with the salad.
• Neglecting to Mix the Dressing Well: Ensure you whisk the dressing ingredients thoroughly. A poorly mixed dressing can lead to uneven flavor distribution in your salad.
• Using the Wrong Type of Raisins: Golden raisins add a unique sweetness and texture. Using regular dark raisins may alter the intended flavor profile of your dish.
• Forgetting to Chill Before Serving: Allow your salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps meld the flavors together and enhances overall taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it chilled at all times until ready to serve.

Freezing Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

• Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through; stir occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat while stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon, and raisins:

What can I substitute for turkey bacon?

You can use cooked chicken or beef turkey bacon as alternatives if you prefer different flavors or textures.

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

Yes! This salad tastes even better when it sits overnight, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Is there a vegan version of this salad?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey bacon with smoked tempeh and use vegan mayo instead of regular mayonnaise.

How do I make Amish Broccoli Salad gluten-free?

All ingredients listed are gluten-free; just ensure that any additional toppings or condiments used are also certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon, and raisins is a delightful side dish perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Its combination of crunchy vegetables, savory turkey bacon, sweet raisins, and creamy dressing makes it versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch or swapping out vegetables based on what you have on hand!