Bbq Turkey Burnt End Salad Recipe
Roasted corn, blue cheese, teardrop peppers, BBQ ranch
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Ingredients
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Salad
BBQ Ranch Dressing
For finishing & optional sear
Method
Salad
- 1
Prepare turkey burnt ends
If using pre-made smoked/roasted turkey burnt ends, warm them gently: heat a skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon neutral oil. Add the turkey pieces in a single layer and sear 1–2 minutes per side until warmed and edges caramelize. In the last 30 seconds, brush with 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce to glaze. Remove from heat and set aside to rest for 2 minutes.
- 2
Roast or warm corn (if using fresh or frozen)
If using fresh corn on the cob: remove kernels and place in a hot skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred, 4–6 minutes. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry, then sauté 3–4 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly before adding to the salad.
- 3
In a large bowl, combine 5 cups mixed salad greens, 1 cup roasted corn, thinly sliced teardrop peppers, 2 sliced green onions, and optional 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeño rounds and 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves. Toss gently to mix.
- 4
Add the warmed, glazed turkey burnt ends on top of the salad and sprinkle 1 cup crumbled blue cheese evenly over the salad.
BBQ Ranch Dressing
- 5
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup buttermilk, and 1/4 cup sour cream until smooth.
- 6
Add 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix, 1/4 cup smoky BBQ sauce, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until fully combined and smooth.
- 7
Taste and adjust: add a squeeze of lemon (from the lemon wedge) or a splash more buttermilk for thinner consistency; add more BBQ sauce for sweeter/smokier flavor. Chill for 10 minutes if time allows to let flavors meld.
Assemble & Finish
- 8
Drizzle 3–4 tablespoons of the BBQ ranch dressing over the salad (or serve on the side). Toss gently if serving mixed, or leave composed with turkey on top for presentation.
- 9
Garnish with additional crumbled blue cheese if desired and a light sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped cilantro. Serve immediately while turkey pieces are warm.