I have one more recipe to squeeze in before Thanksgiving that I am beyond excited to share. My Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad is the only recipe you need for leftover turkey. It has everything you’ll need after the big day, including turkey, cranberries, pecans, onions, celery, jalapeño, and more. It has a touch of sweetness, just enough spice, lots of textures and is bursting with flavor.
The inspiration for Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad came from a recent trip to Texas. My friend and I stopped at a flower seed farm and had lunch at their café. We both ordered their cranberry pecan chicken salad and it was pretty good. But while we were eating, she asked, “Can you make this better?” To which I answered, “Challenge accepted!” This is the sandwich that inspired me.
I believe I’ve won! Ha! This sandwich filling probably contained chicken, celery, poppy seeds, cranberries, pecans, and Miracle Whip (ewwww). That’s it! I knew I had to use real mayonnaise and add some additional flavorings, like lemon juice, Dijon, and jalapeño.
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More Recipes for Leftover Turkey
Here are some more recipes that would be fantastic with leftover turkey: simply replace the chicken in these recipes with leftover turkey.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad
I didn’t make many process pictures but this is a very simple recipe. First, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon juice, salt, pepper, poppy seeds and parsley. Then just stir in celery, onion, jalapeno, cranberries, and pecans.
Next, add in your leftover turkey or chicken. Yes chicken! This is a versatile salad that can be used with chicken or turkey. Fold in then taste and add more salt if desired.
Finally, add to your favorite bread for the tastiest sandwich ever. We used mini croissants and they were the perfect vessel for this delicious Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad.
Sponsored post for Lee’s Marketplace. Ingredients on sale November 17-30: turkey, mayonnaise, celery
How I make Cranberry, Pecan Turkey Salad
FAQ
Does cranberry go on turkey?
What is turkey salad made of?
Can you use dried cranberries in a Turkey salad?
This turkey salad has dried cranberries, but if you have leftover fresh cranberries (which are less sweet and more tart) those can also be used. The cranberries add a bit of a sweet and tart kick to the salad, and the walnuts and celery add a great crunch.
What to do with leftover turkey cranberry salad?
This turkey cranberry salad is great on a croissant, in a pita pocket, or on bread. It’s a great use for leftover turkey. Mix turkey, cranberries, almonds, celery, and mayonnaise in a bowl until well blended. Not what you’re looking for?
Can you use dried cranberries in a salad?
Dried Cranberries – you can use sweetened or unsweetened dried cranberries. If your cranberries are older and a little tough (or you don’t love the cranberries too chewy), you can soak them in hot water for 10-15 minutes to rehydrate and soften them. Pecans or Walnuts – both pecans and walnuts are great in this salad. Use what you have or prefer.
How do you rehydrate dried cranberries?
If your cranberries are a little dry or you don’t love chewy cranberries in your salad, you can plump the cranberries by soaking in hot water for 10-15 minutes before using. This will rehydrate and soften the dried cranberries. Drain well and add to the salad. Add all the salad ingredients to a large bowl.