Why You’ll Love this Turkey Salad Recipe
When you try this turkey salad recipe, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. It’s bright, fresh, and incredibly satisfying.
I love how the combination of turkey, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s versatile, too! Whether you serve it as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or in a sandwich, it always hits the spot.
Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!
Ingredients of Turkey Salad
When it comes to whipping up a delicious turkey salad, having the right ingredients on hand is key. This recipe isn’t only easy to follow but also allows you to customize it based on what you like or have in your kitchen. You might be thinking, “But what do I need?” Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with a simple list of everything you’ll need to create this tasty dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked cubed turkey breast (deli or home-cooked)
- 3 scallions, sliced
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup plain nonfat yogurt (drained of liquid before measuring)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (to taste)
Now, let’s talk about some ingredient considerations. For the turkey, feel free to use leftovers from a holiday feast, or grab some deli turkey if you’re in a crunch.
The veggies add crunch and flavor, so don’t skip the scallions or celery—they really elevate the whole dish! As for the dressing, mixing yogurt with mayonnaise gives that creamy texture without being too heavy.
You can adjust the amount of salt and pepper to match your taste buds; you know, everyone has their own seasoning sweet spot. And if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some grapes or apples for a hint of sweetness. Who knew salad could be so versatile?
How to Make Turkey Salad
Making turkey salad is as easy as pie, and let me tell you, it’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is totally approachable. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get this thing started.
First things first, grab 4 cups of cooked cubed turkey breast—this could be leftover turkey from that holiday feast or sliced deli turkey; either works like a charm. Toss that turkey into a large bowl.
Now, you’ll want to add 3 sliced scallions and 2 chopped celery ribs. The scallions add a nice mild onion flavor while the celery brings that satisfying crunch. Who doesn’t love a little crunch in their salad, right?
Now, here comes the fun part. In another bowl, you’ll whisk together your dressing. Start with 1/2 cup of reduced-fat mayonnaise and 1/2 cup of plain nonfat yogurt. I always drain the yogurt a bit before measuring—nobody wants a watery salad, am I right?
Add in 2 teaspoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of celery seed, and season it all with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper. You can adjust those seasonings to your liking; taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to get a little adventurous.
Once your dressing is smooth and creamy, pour it over the turkey and veggie mixture. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly. You want every piece of turkey to be lovingly coated in that delicious dressing.
And just like that, you have a wonderfully satisfying turkey salad ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for lunch, a picnic, or just a cozy dinner at home. How easy was that?
Turkey Salad Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your turkey salad, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
I love swapping out the mayonnaise for avocado or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. You can add diced apples or grapes for a sweet crunch, or toss in some nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra protein.
If you prefer a spicy kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a different flavor profile, consider using curry powder or dill instead of celery seed.
The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
What to Serve with Turkey Salad
What can you pair with turkey salad to elevate your meal?
I love serving it with a side of crispy, whole grain crackers for added crunch. A fresh fruit salad, bursting with seasonal flavors, complements the savory turkey perfectly.
For a heartier option, I often whip up a simple quinoa or couscous salad, adding some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
If you’re in the mood for a warm side, roasted vegetables seasoned with herbs are delightful.
And don’t overlook a light soup, like a revitalizing gazpacho, which balances the flavors beautifully.
Enjoy experimenting with these combinations!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your turkey salad experience, consider using leftover turkey for a quick and delicious meal.
I love adding crunchy ingredients like apples or grapes for a sweet twist. If you want a little spice, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
For a lighter version, you can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt entirely. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning; a little extra lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
Serve it on whole-grain bread or in lettuce cups for a fresh presentation. Finally, let it chill in the fridge for an hour to meld those flavors!