The Best Leftover Turkey Salad Recipe – Turkey Special
Leftover Turkey Salad is the perfect way to reinvent your holiday leftovers into something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. This easy and versatile salad combines tender shredded turkey, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy mayonnaise-based dressing, creating a dish that’s great for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or served over greens. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a quick dinner, this salad makes sure no delicious turkey goes to waste!
- Prep Time15 min
- Total Time15 min
For the Salad:
- 2–3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries or grapes, halved (optional, for sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for crunch)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Prepare the Ingredients:
Chop or shred leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces.
Finely chop the celery, onion, and any other add-ins like nuts or fruit.
Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Combine the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the turkey, vegetables, herbs, and any optional ingredients.
Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir gently until evenly coated.
Serve:
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Enjoy on sandwiches, crackers, lettuce cups, or over a bed of fresh greens.
Recipe Notes :
Add-ins like apples, cranberries, or grapes give a sweet twist and added texture.
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of mayo.
Chill before serving for the best flavor.
Great with whole grain bread, croissants, or lettuce wraps.
