Skip to main content

Turnips with Bacon and Pickled Mustard Seeds

This elegant dairy-free side dish transforms the humble turnip into a sophisticated accompaniment for a Sunday roast or a quick weeknight supper. The sharp acidity of the homemade pickled mustard seeds perfectly balances the earthy sweetness of the baby turnips, while the crispy bacon adds a delicious salty crunch and a hit of savoury flavour.

Ideal for those seeking a lighter alternative to traditional buttery root vegetables, this recipe uses a punchy vinaigrette to bring the dish to life. It is particularly effective during the spring months when baby turnips are at their most tender, offering a vibrant, health-conscious addition to your dinner table that feels both classic and contemporary.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Turnips with Bacon and Pickled Mustard Seeds

  • 60ml sugar

  • 60ml white balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar

  • 60ml yellow mustard seeds

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 110g thick-cut bacon, cut crosswise 1/4" thick

  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard

  • 900g baby turnips, trimmed, halved or quartered if large

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

How to make Turnips with Bacon and Pickled Mustard Seeds

Bring sugar, vinegar, and 60ml water to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from heat and stir in mustard seeds. Let stand at least 4 hours, or cover and chill up to 12 hours.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until brown and crisp, 8–10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a small bowl and stir in pickled mustard seeds and whole grain mustard; set vinaigrette aside.

Meanwhile, cook turnips in a large pot of boiling salted water until tender, about 3 minutes. Drain and pat turnips dry.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add turnips and vinaigrette and cook, tossing, until warmed through, about 2 minutes; season with salt and pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.