Are you looking for a great way to use that leftover turkey from your holiday feast? Look no further – we have the perfect turkey salad recipe for you!
This easy turkey salad is not only a delicious option, but it’s also a fantastic way to ensure that none of your delicious turkey goes to waste.
In this simple guide, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to make an irresistible turkey salad recipe that everyone in your family will love. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it a stress-free choice during the busy holiday season.
Before you know it, you’ll be impressing your loved ones with a delectable turkey salad that’s both nutritious and satisfying. You’ll never go back to plain old turkey sandwiches again after treating your taste buds to this delightful dish. Stay tuned for the full recipe and helpful tips on how to make it truly exceptional.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
To create a delicious turkey salad, ensure you have the following main ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked and diced turkey
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
Optional Additions
To spice up your turkey salad, consider adding some of these optional ingredients:
- 1/2 cup halved seedless grapes or raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds)
- 1/2 cup diced apples
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional information for the basic turkey salad recipe (excluding optional additions) per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 19g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Potassium | 250mg |
| Vitamin C | 3% DV |
| Calcium | 2% DV |
| Iron | 7% DV |
| Vitamin A | 5% DV |
Substitutions
If you’re looking to modify your turkey salad to suit your dietary preferences, here are some substitutions:
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lower-fat option.
- Swap Dijon mustard for your preferred mustard variety or simply omit it.
- Use cooked and diced chicken – such as rotisserie or shredded chicken – instead of turkey.
Leftover Options
Maximize the use of your leftover ingredients by incorporating them into the turkey salad:
- Add leftover lettuce leaves to create a fresh and crispy texture.
- Leftover pecans, walnuts, or almonds can be tossed in for added crunch.
Storage
Store your completed turkey salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. While it’s generally not recommended to freeze this dish due to the mayonnaise content, if you must, be sure to use a freezer-safe container and consume it within 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some healthy alternatives to mayonnaise in turkey salad?
Instead of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt, avocado, or hummus as a healthy alternative. These options not only provide a creamy texture but also add nutritional benefits and unique flavors to your turkey salad.
How can I incorporate cranberries into a turkey salad?
To add cranberries to your turkey salad, you can either mix in dried cranberries or make a cranberry sauce dressing. You can create a simple cranberry sauce by combining cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan and simmering until the berries burst. Then, mix it with your preferred salad base (such as yogurt or avocado) and other ingredients.
What is a good turkey salad sandwich combination?
A tasty turkey salad sandwich combination can include whole-grain bread, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and cucumber. Add some crunch by incorporating sliced apples, pickles, or nuts. To elevate the flavor, consider adding a hint of mustard or a dash of your favorite herb mix.
What fruits pair well with turkey salad?
Fruits like apples, pears, grapes, and oranges pair well with turkey salad, providing interesting flavors, textures, and freshness. You can also experiment with dried fruits like cherries, cranberries, or apricots to add a chewy, sweet contrast to your salad.
How can I prepare a Southern-style turkey salad?
To prepare a Southern-style turkey salad, mix shredded cooked turkey with finely chopped celery, onion, and sweet pickles. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and mayonnaise (or a healthy alternative). For extra Southern flare, add some diced boiled eggs or pecans for added texture and depth of flavor.
What are the best greens to use in a green salad with turkey?
For a green salad with turkey, opt for greens like romaine lettuce, arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens. These provide a nice base for your salad and complement the flavors of the turkey and other ingredients. To make your salad more interesting, combine different greens for a wider variety of textures and flavors.
