Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad: A Delicious Way to Use Leftovers!

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food! But what do you do with all the leftovers? This Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad is the perfect solution! It’s a fresh and flavorful combination of turkey, pecans, cranberry, poppyseeds, and green onions that makes a tasty lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to make!

Two Delicious Recipes, One Amazing Salad

I’ve analyzed two amazing recipes for Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad from WonkyWonderful and Charlotte Shares Both offer unique twists on this classic dish, so let’s dive into each one:

WonkyWonderful’s Turkey Salad Recipe:

• Simple and Straightforward: This recipe focuses on the essential flavors of the salad, making it perfect for those who prefer a classic approach.
• Tangy and Savory: The combination of cranberries, pecans, and green onions adds a delightful mix of sweet, salty, and tangy notes.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a sandwich, on crackers, in a wrap, or on a salad.

Charlotte Shares’ Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad:

• Packed with Flavor: This recipe includes additional ingredients like Dijon mustard, jalapeno, and lemon juice, creating a more complex and flavorful salad.
• Spicy Kick: The jalapeno adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the cranberries.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is ideal for using up leftover turkey or chicken, making it a great post-Thanksgiving option.

The Best of Both Worlds: Combining the Recipes

Why choose just one recipe when you can combine the best of both? Here’s my ultimate Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 cups chopped leftover turkey
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 celery ribs, sliced or chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• Juice of 1/2 a small lemon
• 1/2 jalapeno, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
3. Serve on your favorite bread, crackers, or lettuce leaves.

Tips:

• For a creamier salad, add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise.
• If you don’t have leftover turkey, you can use cooked chicken instead.
• For a spicier salad, add more jalapeno or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQs

What kind of bread should I use for this salad?

Any type of bread will work, but I recommend a hearty bread like sourdough or rye. You can also use crackers, lettuce leaves, or even pita bread.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to mix it well before serving.

What are some other ways to use this salad?

This salad is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. You can use it as a sandwich filling, a salad topping, or even as a dip for crackers or vegetables.

This Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad is a delicious and easy way to use up leftover turkey or chicken. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. With its fresh and flavorful ingredients, this salad is sure to please everyone at the table. So next time you have leftover turkey, give this recipe a try! You won’t be disappointed.