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This easy leftover turkey salad is packed with flavor! Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add a delightful aromatic touch, while the creamy mayonnaise balances the savory turkey and crisp vegetables. It’s the perfect lunch or light dinner that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Turkey salad in a white dish with a blue, striped napkin and green celery.

Tired of throwing out perfectly good food? Join the club! As a busy mom of three, I know firsthand how easy it is to let leftovers go to waste. Like most, it is never my intention to waste food, but it can happen easily. We were able to score two turkeys this Thanksgiving season for under $12 so I bought two because there is just so many ways to enjoy leftover turkey!

Our turkey was good this year, but I find leftover white meat turkey can get super dry. Our initial bird was 16 pounds with quite a bit leftover. I wanted to make a meal that would serve another two meals, so this turkey salad was perfect! Made with simple ingredients that we had on-hand, it was so delicious enjoyed alone, and with crackers.

FAQS

Can I use canned turkey for this recipe?

While you can use canned turkey, fresh or leftover roasted turkey will offer a better flavor and texture.

How long can I store leftover turkey salad?

Store leftover turkey salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

What can I serve turkey salad with?

Turkey salad is versatile and can be served in various ways:

On toasted bread or crackers
Wrapped in lettuce leaves
As a sandwich filling
Served with a side of chips or a fresh vegetable salad

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make the recipe healthier, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or reduce the amount of mayonnaise. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or cucumbers.

A glass bowl with turkey salad inside and a wooden spoon. There is also a blue, striped napkin and green celery nearby.

Variations

Flavor Variations:

Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a tangy, spicy twist.
Mediterranean: Incorporate chopped Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and dried oregano for a Mediterranean flair. I have a chicken salad with feta recipe that is really tasty!
Spicy: Add a kick with a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Sweet: Add some dried cranberries or raisins for a sweeter kick.

Texture Variations:

Crunchy: Toss in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a satisfying crunch.
Creamy: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or a combination of both for a lighter, healthier option.

Turkey salad in a white dish near a blue, striped napkin with green celery and herbs.

More Thanksgiving Leftovers Ideas

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Easy Leftover Turkey Salad

This easy leftover turkey salad is packed with flavor! Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add a delightful aromatic touch, while the creamy mayonnaise balances the savory turkey and crisp vegetables. It's the perfect lunch or light dinner that's both satisfying and delicious.

Prep Time 5

Total Time 10

Course Lunch

Cuisine American

Servings people

Calories 419cal

Author Amy Desrosiers

Cost $3

Equipment

Large bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
cutting board & knife

Ingredients

4 cups diced white meat turkey
1 cup mayonnaise
¾ cup celery diced
⅓ cup white onion diced
½ teaspoon fresh thyme about two sprigs
½ teaspoon fresh rosemary about a sprig
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the turkey, mayonnaise, celery, onion, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Stir until well combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
Serve on toasted bread or crackers, or in a lettuce cup.

Notes

Nutritional values may vary and are meant to be a guide.

Nutrition