After a week of rich holiday feasting, I found myself staring at a mountain of leftover turkey with a creative dilemma. The aroma of slightly smoked, tender turkey wafting through my kitchen reminded me of why I loved Thanksgiving so much, but I needed a fresh twist to break the monotony. In a spur of culinary inspiration, I whipped up a creamy turkey salad that turned those leftovers into a delightful treat!
This easy turkey salad packs in vibrant flavors and crunchy textures, marrying the tender meat with crisp celery and the brightness of apple cider vinegar. It’s a quick and satisfying meal option that’s perfect for a light lunch or a sneaky snack between meals. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that not only saves your leftovers but also brings a new life to your table.
Whether served on a crusty slice of sourdough or alongside some crunchy crackers, this versatile recipe is destined to become your new go-to for repurposing Thanksgiving leftovers. Let’s dive into this deliciously creamy turkey salad!
Why Will You Love This Turkey Salad?
Simplicity at Its Best: This creamy turkey salad requires minimal effort and just a few basic ingredients, making it perfect for a quick meal.
Rich, Flavorful: A delightful blend of turkey, crisp celery, and the tang of apple cider vinegar brings vibrant flavors that elevate your leftovers.
Customizable: With endless variations, feel free to add your favorite ingredients like grapes or nuts for a unique twist.
Perfect for Leftovers: Turn your Thanksgiving meal into a fresh and satisfying dish, reducing waste while enjoying delicious flavors.
Kid-friendly Appeal: This recipe delights both kids and adults, making it a family-friendly option that’s great for lunch or a light snack!
Turkey Salad Ingredients
Transform your leftovers with these simple ingredients!
For the Salad
- Chopped leftover turkey – Lean meat provides protein and substance to the salad; you can replace it with poached turkey breast if you don’t have leftovers.
- Chopped celery (from about 2 stalks) – Adds crunch and freshness; diced cucumber works well if you’re looking for a different texture.
- Chopped shallots – Introduces a mild onion flavor to enhance the overall profile; red onions can replace shallots for a sharper taste.
- Chopped fresh dill – Offers herby notes that elevate the dish; parsley or chives can be used for a flavor change if dill isn’t available.
For the Creamy Base
- Mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base of the salad; for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt.
- Apple cider vinegar – Provides a tangy balance to the richness of the mayonnaise; white vinegar can be used as an alternative.
- Celery salt – Enhances flavor with a touch of saltiness; if unavailable, regular salt can work in moderation.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Adds warmth and depth; adjust to your taste preference.
This turkey salad not only revives your leftovers but also makes a satisfying meal anyone will crave!
How to Make Turkey Salad
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Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the chopped leftover turkey, celery, and shallots until well mixed. The turkey should be tender and easily shredded, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
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Add Creaminess: Next, incorporate the chopped dill, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, celery salt, and black pepper. This combination gives the salad that rich and tangy flavor we love!
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Mix Thoroughly: Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy base. You want a harmonious blend that’s creamy yet light.
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Taste & Adjust: Taste your turkey salad and feel free to adjust the seasoning. Add more mayo or a sprinkle of salt and pepper if needed for that perfect flavor balance.
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Serve: Scoop the salad onto toasted sourdough, pile it high on crackers, or simply serve it on a bed of greens. Enjoy with a smile!
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for the Best Turkey Salad
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Keep It Chilled: Ensure the leftover turkey is properly chilled before mixing. This maintains freshness and prevents any food safety issues.
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Customize It: Feel free to add extras like diced apples, grapes, or nuts for a unique twist in your turkey salad. Don’t hesitate to experiment!
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Mix Well: Thoroughly mix all ingredients until evenly coated, preventing any dry bits. This ensures every bite is delicious and flavorful!
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Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning to your liking. Sometimes a little extra mayo or seasoning can elevate the entire dish.
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Storage Reminder: Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Your creamy turkey salad stays fresh for 3-4 days, perfect for quick lunches!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Creamy Turkey Salad options are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop your turkey, celery, and shallots up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, prepare the creamy base (mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and seasonings) and refrigerate it separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything in a bowl, mix thoroughly, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful turkey salad that tastes just as fresh and delicious, all while cutting down on prep time!
What to Serve with Turkey Salad?
Brighten your meal with delectable sides that perfectly complement your creamy turkey salad.
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Crunchy Veggie Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh vegetables adds a satisfying crunch and contrast, making every bite vibrant and refreshing. Use carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers for an inviting presentation.
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Toasted Sourdough Bread: Perfectly toasted sourdough offers a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the turkey salad. Slice it up as a base or serve it on the side for a wholesome touch.
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Crispy Potato Chips: The saltiness and crunch of potato chips provide a delightful contrast to the creamy salad. They’re also a fun, indulgent snack option that everyone will love.
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Simple Green Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette is an excellent way to add freshness. The crisp greens complement the creaminess of the salad, balancing the flavors beautifully.
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Fruit Salad: A sweet and fruity salad featuring seasonal fruits like apples and grapes can provide a refreshing sweetness that enhances the overall meal. This combo also adds a pop of color and sweetness.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Quench your thirst with a tall glass of refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonade. The light, zesty flavors make a perfect accompaniment to the savory salad, brightening every bite.
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Classic Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that pairs well with the rich turkey salad. The creamy dressing unifies both dishes, creating a coherence that everyone will appreciate.
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Salad
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Fridge: Store your turkey salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the turkey salad in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
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Reheating: Reheating is not recommended as it may change the texture, but you can remix it with a bit of mayonnaise if it dries out after freezing.
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Make Ahead: This turkey salad can be made a day in advance for enhanced flavors and convenience, making it an excellent option for meal prepping!
Turkey Salad Variations
Get ready to add your personal touch to this creamy delight!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with avocado for a creamy, healthy alternative.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor. The nutty crunch pairs wonderfully with the creamy base.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix for a lively heat that brightens each bite.
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Fruit Infusion: Fold in some diced apples or grapes for a burst of sweetness that beautifully balances the savory notes of the salad.
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Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like tarragon or cilantro for a unique flavor twist that will surprise your taste buds.
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Vegan Version: Replace turkey with chickpeas and use vegan mayo to create a satisfyingly hearty and creamy salad that everyone will love.
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Crunchy Veggies: Include diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for an extra crunch and a pop of color in your salad.
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Zesty Twist: Stir in lemon zest for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the creamy richness of the salad.
Turkey Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of turkey should I use for my salad?
Absolutely! Chopped leftover turkey is ideal for this salad as it gives a great flavor and texture. However, if you don’t have any leftovers, you can substitute it with poached turkey breast for a similar effect.
How long can I store my turkey salad in the fridge?
Your turkey salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it chilled to maintain its freshness and flavor, so it stays delightful until the last scoop!
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Can I freeze turkey salad for later use?
Yes, you can freeze your turkey salad! Just place it in an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge. If it seems a bit dry after thawing, mix in a little extra mayonnaise for creaminess!
How can I enhance the flavor of my turkey salad?
Mixing in a variety of ingredients is a fun way to customize your turkey salad! Consider adding diced apples or dried cranberries for a sweet twist, or you could also include nuts for a lovely crunch. Use fresh herbs like basil or tarragon to keep things fresh and exciting!
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Very much! In fact, making your turkey salad a day in advance can enhance the flavors as they mingle together. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready for you when you need it!
Is this turkey salad suitable for those with allergies?
While this recipe contains common allergens such as mayonnaise (which may contain eggs), you can easily modify it for dietary needs. For instance, using vegan mayonnaise or Greek yogurt makes it lighter and also suitable for some dietary restrictions. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your specific needs!
Savory Turkey Salad: Elevate Your Leftovers Delightfully
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, stir together the chopped leftover turkey, celery, and shallots until well mixed.
- Incorporate the chopped dill, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, celery salt, and black pepper.
- Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy base.
- Taste the turkey salad and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve the salad on toasted sourdough, crackers, or a bed of greens.