This simple sandwich spread, which only requires five ingredients, will transform your leftover Thanksgiving turkey into something truly special.
Ah, Thanksgiving. A time for family, friends, and mountains of delicious food. But what happens when the feast is over and you’re left with a fridge full of leftover turkey? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered! This guide will show you how to transform those leftovers into the ultimate turkey salad sandwich, a lunchtime staple that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Gather Your Ingredients:
- Leftover cooked turkey, shredded or diced (about 4 cups)
- Celery, finely diced (about 1/2 cup)
- Red onion, finely diced (about 1/4 cup)
- Dried cranberries (about 1/2 cup)
- Mayonnaise (about 1/2 cup, or to taste)
- Dijon mustard (about 2 teaspoons)
- Lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon)
- Sugar (about 2 teaspoons)
- Fresh dill, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bread of your choice (we recommend sourdough or ciabatta)
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
Get Ready to Make Magic:
- Assemble the Flavor Bomb: In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, diced celery, red onion, and cranberries. This is where the magic begins!
- Whisk the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sugar, and chopped dill. This creamy concoction will bind all the ingredients together and add a burst of flavor.
- Mix and Match: Pour the dressing over the turkey mixture and gently fold everything together until evenly combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Build Your Masterpiece: Spread the turkey salad generously on your favorite bread. If you’re feeling fancy, add a layer of fresh lettuce leaves for a touch of crispness.
- Enjoy Your Creation: Take a bite and savor the deliciousness! This turkey salad sandwich is the perfect way to use up those Thanksgiving leftovers and enjoy a satisfying lunch.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Turkey Salad Sandwich:
- Use high-quality ingredients. This will make a big difference in the overall flavor of your sandwich.
- Don’t overmix the turkey salad. You want it to be creamy but still have some texture.
- Toast your bread. This will add a nice crunch and help the sandwich hold its shape.
- Get creative with your toppings. Add a slice of avocado, a sprinkle of cheese, or a few sprouts for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it your own. This recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use leftover chicken instead of turkey? Absolutely! This recipe works just as well with leftover chicken.
- How long will the turkey salad keep in the refrigerator? The turkey salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze the turkey salad? Yes, you can freeze the turkey salad for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
- What are some other ways to use leftover turkey? You can use leftover turkey in soups, stews, casseroles, or even pasta dishes.
Additional Resources:
- For more turkey salad inspiration, check out these websites:
- For tips on how to store and reheat leftover turkey, visit the USDA website: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/leftovers
You can make the best turkey salad sandwiches with this guide and a little imagination, so gather your leftover turkey and get ready to make a lunchtime masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Turkey Salad Recipe
- This is a great way to use up leftover turkey or chicken. It’s made with simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. It’s really tasty.
- If some members of your family are not fond of dark meat turkey, make them the tastiest leftover turkey salad. They won’t know it’s dark meat!.
- It only takes five minutes to make this recipe for turkey salad, which is delicious as a quick lunch or snack.
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Ingredients for Easy Turkey Salad
- Cooked Turkey or Chicken
- Sweet Pickle Relish
- Miracle Whip (this is what we always use) or mayonnaise
- Celery Salt
- Granulated Garlic or Garlic Powder, optional