Creamy Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans

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The perfect answer to the post-holiday question: “What do I do with all this leftover turkey?” This creamy turkey salad is loaded with tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a zesty Dijon dressing that takes your leftover game to a whole new level.

Great for sandwiches, crackers, or a scoop on top of fresh greens, this salad isn’t just for Thanksgiving recovery—it’s a quick and satisfying option any time you have cooked turkey on hand. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a last-minute lunch, this salad is versatile, protein-rich, and bursting with texture and flavor.

Full Recipe:

4 cups chopped cooked turkey
2 ribs celery, finely chopped
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup chopped pecans
¼ cup minced red onion
¾ cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon dried dill
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped turkey, celery, cranberries, pecans, and red onion.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, dried dill, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Pour the dressing over the turkey mixture and toss everything together until fully coated.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Enjoy it in sandwiches, on crackers, or over a bed of greens.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes

Kcal: 296 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

History and Origin

Turkey Salad, like many leftover-based dishes, doesn’t have a specific culinary origin but rather evolves from the tradition of making the most out of leftover ingredients after a large holiday meal. While turkey salad itself may not have deep historical roots, it’s a nod to the practice of repurposing meats from a big feast into a new meal to avoid food waste. The combination of turkey, nuts, and fruits like cranberries is popular in North America, especially in regions where Thanksgiving is widely celebrated.

The inclusion of ingredients such as pecans and cranberries helps to preserve the “holiday” feel, even after the main event has passed. In particular, the tangy kick from Dijon mustard and the creamy consistency from mayonnaise reflect the typical flavor profiles of North American salads. You could consider it a twist on the classic chicken salad, but with a festive holiday twist that includes some of the season’s most beloved ingredients.

Variations and Adaptations

While the basic version of Turkey Salad includes turkey, cranberries, pecans, and a creamy dressing, there are plenty of ways to make this dish your own. Here are a few variations that can be found in different regions or based on personal preference:

Classic Chicken Salad Twist: If you prefer chicken over turkey, this recipe works equally well with any cooked chicken breast. The tangy flavors of mustard and the sweetness of cranberries complement the chicken just as well as they do turkey.
Nuts and Fruits Swap: The pecans and cranberries are traditional, but feel free to experiment with other nuts and fruits. Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts can provide a different texture, while fresh grapes or dried cherries can add a new sweet twist. These ingredients give you the flexibility to make the salad more unique or to better match what you have in your pantry.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Options: If you’re looking for a plant-based version of the dish, you can swap out the turkey for a meat alternative or roasted chickpeas for protein. Additionally, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter, dairy-free dressing. If you’re avoiding nuts, you can simply omit them or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.
Spices and Herbs: The basic recipe uses dried dill, but you can easily swap this with other herbs depending on your preferences. Tarragon, parsley, or basil can provide a fresh herbal taste, while a sprinkle of curry powder can lend a whole new flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

Turkey Salad is a relatively balanced meal that incorporates lean protein, healthy fats, and a small amount of carbohydrates, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value of a typical serving:

Calories: 296 kcal
Protein: 17g (turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle growth and tissue repair)
Fat: 22g (healthy fats from mayonnaise and pecans, which provide essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids)
Carbohydrates: 8g (with 6g of sugar from dried cranberries, offering a sweet and tangy flavor)
Fiber: 1g (helps with digestion and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels)
Sodium: 384mg (moderate amount; however, it can be reduced by using a lighter dressing or low-sodium mayo)

While this recipe isn’t particularly low-calorie, it’s nutrient-dense, offering protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. The cranberries provide a burst of antioxidants, which are known to fight inflammation, while the pecans offer heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. However, as with all creamy salads, the calorie count is somewhat high, so portion control may be necessary if you’re watching your calorie intake.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Turkey Salad is incredibly versatile, allowing you to serve it in a variety of ways. Here are a few creative ideas for serving this dish and pairing it with other foods:

Turkey Salad Sandwiches: Place a generous scoop of the turkey salad between two slices of bread, croissants, or a toasted bagel. This classic sandwich option is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
On Crackers or Tortilla Chips: If you’re craving a lighter snack, serve the turkey salad on whole-grain crackers or tortilla chips. The crunchy texture of the crackers or chips will complement the creaminess of the salad.
On a Salad Base: For a healthier meal, serve the turkey salad over a bed of leafy greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed lettuce. You could even add some roasted sweet potatoes or avocado slices to make it a more filling salad.
Turkey Salad Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves or whole wheat wraps to turn the salad into a low-carb, portable meal. It’s a great option if you want something quick and easy that you can take on the go.
Pair with a Side of Chips or Pickles: Sweet potato chips, kettle chips, or even pickle spears can enhance the texture contrast, while offering a nice salty balance to the richness of the turkey salad.

When it comes to drinks, pairing this turkey salad with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements its tangy and creamy dressing. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a light iced tea can be refreshing.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Turkey Salad turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

Don’t Overwork the Dressing: It’s easy to get carried away with mixing, but try to keep the ingredients as intact as possible. The salad should have a good balance of the creamy dressing with distinct chunks of turkey and other mix-ins, so don’t over-mix.
Let it Chill: For maximum flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop a deeper taste.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Even though this recipe is a great way to use up leftovers, fresh vegetables like celery and onion can add a satisfying crunch. Make sure the turkey is well-cooked and shredded into bite-sized pieces for an easy and enjoyable bite.
Adjust for Taste: Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. If you love mustard, add a bit more; if you prefer a sweeter salad, you can add a dash of honey to the dressing or more cranberries.

Potential Health Benefits

While Turkey Salad is a delicious and indulgent dish, it also offers several health benefits due to its wholesome ingredients:

High in Protein: The turkey provides a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and immune system function. It’s also very filling, which can help curb hunger for longer periods.
Healthy Fats: The pecans and mayonnaise provide healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. These fats help to reduce bad cholesterol levels in the body.
Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries are well-known for their antioxidant properties. They help combat free radicals in the body, reduce inflammation, and promote urinary tract health.
Fiber from Celery: Celery provides a small amount of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.

Conclusion

This Turkey Salad recipe is an incredibly versatile and flavorful way to repurpose leftover turkey, turning it into a meal that’s both satisfying and festive. With its crunchy vegetables, tangy dressing, and delightful mix-ins, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed as a sandwich, dip, or salad topping, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re using up Thanksgiving leftovers or simply looking for a light yet filling lunch, this turkey salad is sure to become a household favorite.

So, give this recipe a try, and bring the comforting flavors of the holiday season into your everyday meals! Your taste buds will thank you.