Name: Turkey Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded; 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option); 2 celery stalks, finely chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This turkey salad is the ultimate way to transform leftovers into something exciting. It’s creamy, crunchy, and savory, yet light enough for a healthy meal. You can enjoy it on its own, scoop it onto crackers, or tuck it into a sandwich or wrap for a quick meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked turkey, diced or shredded
Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
Celery, finely chopped
Red onion, finely chopped
Dijon mustard
Lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the turkey, celery, red onion, and parsley.
In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the turkey mixture and stir until evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Cranberry Turkey Salad: Add dried cranberries or fresh grapes for sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in pecans, almonds, or walnuts.
Herb Twist: Add fresh dill or tarragon for a unique flavor.
Avocado Turkey Salad: Replace some mayo with mashed avocado.
Spicy Version: Stir in a little sriracha or cayenne pepper.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy dressing can separate.
Serve chilled—no reheating necessary.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, cooked chicken works perfectly as a substitute.

Can I make turkey salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

What’s the best turkey to use?

Leftover roasted or smoked turkey works best, but deli turkey can also be used.

Can I make it healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.

How do I serve turkey salad?

Serve it on bread, in wraps, with crackers, or over a bed of lettuce.

Can I add fruit?

Yes, apples, grapes, or dried cranberries add a nice sweetness.

What type of mustard works best?

Dijon adds tang, but yellow mustard can be used for a milder flavor.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, simply use a dairy-free mayo.

Why is my salad watery?

Too much lemon juice or watery celery can thin the dressing. Use paper towels to blot veggies before adding.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just adjust the ingredients accordingly—it’s great for feeding a crowd.

Conclusion

Turkey salad is a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy leftover turkey, turning simple ingredients into a versatile dish. With its creamy texture, crunchy vegetables, and endless customization options, it’s a go-to recipe for quick lunches or light dinners. Once you try it, it may become a staple in your leftover rotation.