The Best Leftover Turkey Salad Recipe – Turkey Special

Looking for a delicious way to use up your leftover turkey? This Leftover Turkey Salad is the perfect solution. Packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a healthy and easy-to-make dish that transforms your turkey leftovers into a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this turkey salad is sure to please. With a combination of crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing, it’s a refreshing take on traditional turkey dishes.

  • 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:

1

Chop or shred leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces.

2

Finely chop the celery, onion, and any other add-ins like nuts or fruit.

Mix the Dressing:

3

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Combine the Salad:

4

In a large bowl, combine the turkey, vegetables, herbs, and any optional ingredients.

5

Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir gently until evenly coated.

Serve:

6

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

7

Enjoy on sandwiches, crackers, lettuce cups, or over a bed of fresh greens.

Recipe Notes :

Turkey Salad Dressing: Use a light vinaigrette or Greek yogurt-based dressing for a healthier option.

Crisp Vegetables: Add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or celery for added crunch.

Diced Turkey: Ensure the turkey is evenly diced to distribute flavors throughout the salad.

Salad Variations: Incorporate ingredients like cranberries or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Meal Prep: This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.