If you’re looking for a dish that’s both quick and delicious, this turkey salad recipe is just what you need! Seriously, it comes together in no time and packs a flavor punch that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. I love how versatile it is—you can whip it up in just 15 minutes and enjoy it on a bed of fresh greens or even in a sandwich! Trust me, once you try this quick and delicious turkey salad recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen. So, let’s dive into how you can make this tasty meal happen!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed greens
How to Prepare the Quick and Delicious Turkey Salad Recipe
Making this turkey salad is super simple and fun! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the shredded turkey, chopped celery, and diced red onion. I love how the crunch of the celery adds a fresh texture to the salad! Just give it a nice stir until everything’s evenly mixed—it’s like a little party in your bowl!
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. I usually start with the mayonnaise and then add the mustard for that tangy kick. Give it a good whisk until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is where the magic happens, so taste it and adjust the seasoning if you need to—maybe a little more lemon juice for brightness? Yum!
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Now, pour the dressing over your turkey mixture. Gently fold everything together until the turkey is nicely coated. You want every bite to have that rich, creamy goodness! Finally, serve this delightful salad on a bed of mixed greens. I like to pile it high and maybe even sprinkle some extra pepper on top for a bit of zing. Enjoy it right away, or let it chill in the fridge for a few minutes for an even cooler treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Deliciously creamy and flavorful dressing that brings everything together
- Healthy ingredients packed with protein and low in calories
- Versatile—enjoy it on greens, in a wrap, or even as a sandwich filling
- Perfect for meal prep or a last-minute lunch or dinner
- Great for using up leftover turkey—no waste!
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins, like grapes or apples for sweetness
Tips for Success
Want to make this quick and delicious turkey salad recipe even better? Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you nail it every time!
- Mix it Up: Feel free to add in some chopped grapes or diced apples for a sweet twist! They bring a lovely crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the dressing for an extra kick!
- Herb it Up: Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can elevate your turkey salad. Just a handful will infuse a bright, fresh flavor that’s out of this world.
- Let it Chill: For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to soak into the turkey and veggies, making every bite even more delicious!
- Make it Ahead: This salad holds up well in the fridge, so you can make it a day in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container, and you’ll have a quick meal ready when you need it!
Trust me, these little tweaks can take your turkey salad from good to absolutely fantastic! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying this quick and delicious turkey salad recipe, you might be wondering about the nutritional breakdown. Here’s a typical estimate per serving, which is about 1 cup:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
These values can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, but overall, it’s a satisfying, protein-packed option that’s low in calories. Perfect for a light meal that keeps you energized!
Serving Suggestions
This quick and delicious turkey salad recipe is fantastic on its own, but if you want to turn it into a complete meal, I’ve got some great ideas for you! Here are a few delightful pairings that complement the salad beautifully:
- Crispy Bread: Serve it with some crusty whole grain bread or warm pita for a satisfying crunch. It’s perfect for scooping up that creamy goodness!
- Soup Duo: A light vegetable or tomato basil soup makes a cozy companion to your salad. The warm soup contrasts nicely with the cool, refreshing flavors of the turkey salad.
- Fruit Bowl: A side of fresh fruit salad or a simple fruit platter adds a lovely sweetness. Try mixing in some berries, melon, or citrus for a refreshing touch!
- Chips and Dip: Some baked tortilla chips with a zesty salsa or guacamole can add that extra crunch and flavor—perfect for a casual lunch vibe!
- Pickled Veggies: A small side of pickled cucumbers or carrots can bring a tangy contrast to the richness of the salad, making every bite interesting!
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to suit your taste! These pairings not only round out your meal but also elevate the flavors of the turkey salad. Enjoy your delicious feast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers from your quick and delicious turkey salad recipe? No worries! Here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy them later without losing any flavor.
First off, make sure to transfer any leftover salad into an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent any odors from the fridge mingling with your tasty turkey salad. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just remember that the longer it sits, the more the greens may wilt, so it’s best to enjoy it relatively soon!
Now, if you find yourself with a craving for that salad but want to serve it warm, you can do a little mixing and matching! Simply take the turkey salad out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This brings back some of the flavor and texture without needing to heat it. However, I recommend enjoying it cold as that’s how it shines, but a quick warming of the turkey in the microwave is an option if you prefer it that way. Just be careful not to heat it too long—about 30 seconds should do the trick!
And there you have it! Easy storage and reheating tips to make your turkey salad experience delicious every time. Enjoy!
FAQ Section
Can I use leftover turkey for this salad?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey from holiday meals or any roast. Just shred it up, and you’re good to go!
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise or want a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute. It adds creaminess and a nice tang, plus it’s packed with protein!
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This turkey salad is best enjoyed within 2 days when stored in an airtight container. Just keep in mind that the greens may get a bit wilty, so if you’re meal prepping, consider adding them fresh just before serving.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the turkey salad a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just mix everything together except the greens, and then serve it on a bed of fresh mixed greens when you’re ready to enjoy!
What else can I add to the salad for extra flavor?
Oh, there are so many options! You can toss in some chopped nuts for crunch, dried cranberries for sweetness, or even some chopped hard-boiled eggs for added protein. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
Quick and Delicious Turkey Salad Recipe in 15 Minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and delicious turkey salad recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed greens
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded turkey, celery, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the turkey mixture and stir until well combined.
- Serve on a bed of mixed greens.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding grapes or apples.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: quick and delicious turkey salad recipe