Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

The Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of vegetables with a creamy dressing, making it perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner. This salad stands out with its crunchy textures and the sweetness of raisins, providing a balanced flavor profile that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With only a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of fresh broccoli and cauliflower paired with turkey bacon creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish: This salad is great as a side dish or can be enjoyed on its own for lunch.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this recipe offers nutritional benefits without compromising on taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins, you will need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Heavy-bottomed pan or cast iron skillet
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining all your ingredients efficiently without any mess.
• Heavy-bottomed pan or cast iron skillet: Ensures even cooking of the turkey bacon, preventing burning.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly together.

Ingredients

For this delectable Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables and Fruits

• 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

Nuts and Seeds

• 1/3 Cup sunflower seeds (salted)

Dressing Components

• 1 Cup Mayonnaise
• 3/4 Cup Sour Cream
• 2 Tablespoons vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons Sugar
• 1/2 Teaspoon salt

Cheese

• 1 Cup cheese crumbles

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

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a heavy-bottomed or cast iron pan, cook the chopped turkey bacon until it’s crisp. If you prefer to use some of the fat in your dressing, reserve 2 tablespoons.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the turkey bacon is cooking:
1. Chop the raw broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.
2. Finely dice the red onion.
3. Break sharp cheddar cheese into small crumbles.

Step 3: Combine Raw Ingredients

Add all the raw salad ingredients—broccoli, cauliflower, onions, raisins, sunflower seeds—to a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

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

Step 5: Combine Dressing with Turkey Bacon Fat

If using reserved turkey bacon fat from step one:
1. Add it to your dressing mixture and whisk until well combined.

Step 6: Toss Salad

Add cooked turkey bacon to the salad bowl. Gently toss everything together until evenly mixed.

Step 7: Dress The Salad

Pour all of the dressing over the broccoli salad. Stir gently to coat all vegetables thoroughly.

Step 8: Chill Before Serving

Store your prepared salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. Enjoy!

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

Amish broccoli salad with cauliflower, turkey bacon, and raisins is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. It is versatile and pairs well with many meals or can stand alone as a refreshing snack.

As a Side Dish

• This salad complements grilled chicken or turkey perfectly, adding crunch and flavor.

At Picnics or Potlucks

• A favorite choice for gatherings, it holds up well and can be prepared ahead of time.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread or rolls for a satisfying meal option.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair it with a piece of fruit or yogurt for a quick and healthy lunch.

For Meal Prep

• Store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

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

Perfecting this salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh broccoli and cauliflower for the best taste and crunch.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill for at least an hour before serving. This helps meld the flavors together.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing before mixing it into the salad; adjust sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Add Crunch: Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use Quality Mayonnaise: Choose a good-quality mayonnaise for a richer flavor in your dressing.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese crumbles, such as feta or goat cheese, to change up the taste.

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

Amish broccoli salad is not only delicious on its own but also pairs nicely with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken
   Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned simply provide a protein-rich complement to the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf
   A light quinoa pilaf with herbs adds a nutty flavor and makes your meal more nutritious.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Colorful roasted vegetables bring additional flavors and make the meal visually appealing.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables add depth to your dining experience.
5. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw offers a contrasting texture that balances well with the creamy salad.
6. Cornbread Muffins
   Warm cornbread muffins serve as a delightful bread option that complements the dish nicely.
7. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide comfort food vibes alongside the salad.
8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad brings freshness and sweetness, making it an excellent palate cleanser after rich dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture.

• Using stale ingredients – Freshness matters! Always use fresh broccoli and cauliflower for the best crunch and taste.
• Skipping the dressing mix – Don’t just dump the dressing on top. Mix it well to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Overcooking turkey bacon – Cook turkey bacon until crisp, but avoid burning it for optimal flavor without bitterness.
• Not chilling before serving – Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
• Ignoring ingredient proportions – Stick to the recipe measurements for a balanced flavor and texture in your salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Freezing Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

• Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture and flavor.
• If you must freeze, do so without the dressing and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins.

What can I substitute for turkey bacon?

You can use cooked chicken or beef bacon as a substitute while keeping similar flavors.

How long will Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins last?

The salad lasts up to 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to include bell peppers or carrots for added crunch and color.

Is there a vegan alternative?

To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based bacon alternatives and vegan mayonnaise instead of regular mayonnaise.

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

Absolutely! It’s best to prepare it a few hours ahead or even the day before serving for enhanced flavor.

Final Thoughts

Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins is a delightful side dish that combines fresh vegetables with savory flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or seeds. Try it today; you won’t be disappointed!

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

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower, Turkey Bacon & Raisins, a delightful dish that beautifully balances crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing. This salad is perfect for potlucks, casual family dinners, or as a refreshing light lunch. Featuring fresh broccoli and cauliflower complemented by crispy turkey bacon and sweet raisins, this dish offers a satisfying mix of textures and tastes that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance for added convenience.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 4 cups chopped cauliflower
• 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
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup crumbled cheese (such as sharp cheddar)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, cook the chopped turkey bacon until crisp; set aside.
2. Chop broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces, dice the red onion, and crumble the cheese.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, cauliflower, onions, raisins, and sunflower seeds.
4. For the dressing, whisk together sugar and salt with vinegar, then blend in mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
5. Add the cooked turkey bacon to the salad mixture.
6. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
7. Chill in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg