If you’re looking for a delightful twist on leftover turkey that bursts with color, texture, and fresh flavors, this Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Fresh Dill Recipe is a perfect find. It combines tender turkey with the sweetness of dried cranberries, the crunch of pecans, and the bright herbaceous zing of fresh dill, all brought together by a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re refreshing your post-holiday meal or craving a light yet satisfying lunch, this salad is both comforting and vibrant in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this recipe are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen, each contributing a unique layer to the salad’s overall harmony of taste and texture. From succulent turkey to zesty mustard and fresh lemon juice, this list ensures your salad is both balanced and bursting with flavor.
- 2 cups finely diced leftover turkey: The hearty base that provides savory, meaty goodness and protein.
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery: Adds fresh crunch and a subtle earthiness.
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions: Brings a mild onion bite to brighten the flavor.
- 1/4 cup finely diced dried cranberries: Sweet and tart bursts that dance on your palate.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans: Adds a buttery crunch that complements every spoonful.
- 2-1/4 teaspoons finely chopped fresh dill: The herbaceous star giving a fresh, aromatic lift.
- 1/3 cup mayo (Hellman’s/Best Foods recommended): Creamy binder for luscious texture.
- 1/3 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and smooth richness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard: Gives a gentle kick and depth to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Zesty brightness balancing creamy elements.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Subtle savory background flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances overall savory notes without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning and rounding out flavors.
How to Make Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Fresh Dill Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Start by making sure each component—the turkey, celery, green onions, cranberries, pecans, and fresh dill—is diced finely. This ensures every spoonful has a wonderful mix of flavors and textures without any chunky surprises. Combine all these in a large bowl, setting the stage for the dressing to come together smoothly.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, onion powder, and garlic powder until the mixture is silky and homogeneous. This creamy dressing is the glue that complements the savory turkey and sweet cranberries perfectly. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper—taste as you go since the turkey’s seasoning can vary.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Gently pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Stir carefully but thoroughly so every piece is coated in that luscious dressing. This is where the magic happens—balancing the creamy, crunchy, tangy, and sweet elements into one harmonious dish. Give it a final taste and tweak the seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Though you can enjoy it immediately, letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld deliciously. This simple step elevates the dish, making it even more refreshing and satisfying.
How to Serve Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Fresh Dill Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of additional fresh dill on top instantly brightens the salad visually and aromatically. For a bit of color and flavor contrast, consider a few extra dried cranberries or a handful of chopped pecans. These little touches give it a polished, inviting finish.
Side Dishes
This turkey salad shines with a variety of sides. Pair it with crusty whole grain bread for sandwiches, or serve it atop a bed of fresh mixed greens for a light, refreshing meal. It also complements roasted root vegetables or a simple soup beautifully, making it an ideal choice for a balanced lunch or dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Stuff the turkey salad into crisp endive leaves for elegant bites. Alternatively, use hollowed-out tomatoes or avocados as edible bowls for a colorful, decorative approach. You can even serve it alongside crackers or pita chips for a delightful party spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, but be mindful that the pecans may soften as they soak up moisture. Stir gently before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Freezing the salad is not recommended because the mayo and sour cream-based dressing tends to separate and become watery upon thawing, which can affect texture and flavor negatively.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm meal, consider serving the salad chilled alongside a warm dish, or use the turkey in a hot recipe instead. Reheating the salad itself will cause the mayo and sour cream to break down.
FAQs
Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?
Absolutely! If you don’t have leftovers on hand, cooked and cooled turkey breast works beautifully. Just be sure to dice it finely to keep the texture consistent throughout the salad.
What can I substitute for the dried cranberries?
If you want to mix it up, dried cherries or golden raisins make excellent alternatives, providing that sweet-tart element that balances the savory notes.
Can I make this salad vegan or dairy-free?
You can swap the mayo and sour cream for plant-based versions, and replace the turkey with chickpeas or tofu for a vegan twist. Just adjust seasoning to taste, and you’ll have a similarly delicious salad.
Is it necessary to finely dice all the ingredients?
While it’s not a strict rule, finely dicing helps achieve a uniform texture so every bite has balanced flavors and mouthfeel. Larger chunks might throw off that harmony this salad is known for.
How long does this salad stay fresh? Can I pack it for lunch?
This salad is perfect for lunchboxes and keeps well for up to 3 days refrigerated. Just give it a gentle stir before eating to refresh the texture after sitting in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Fresh Dill Recipe enough as a go-to for transforming your leftover turkey into something truly special. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavors, and perfect for lunches, picnics, or light dinners. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy turkey!
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Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Fresh Dill Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Turkey Salad Recipe is a quick and flavorful way to repurpose leftover turkey into a delicious, creamy salad perfect for sandwiches or as a light meal. Combining finely diced turkey, celery, green onions, dried cranberries, and pecans with a tangy, creamy dressing made from mayo, sour cream, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, and herbs, it’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors that can be prepared in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups finely diced leftover turkey
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup finely diced dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans
- 2–1/4 teaspoons finely chopped fresh dill
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (Hellman’s/Best Foods)
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make Salad: Ensure all salad ingredients—finely diced leftover turkey, celery, green onions, dried cranberries, pecans, and fresh dill—are finely diced for a consistent texture. Combine them together in a large mixing bowl.
- Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended. Adjust seasoning as needed based on the turkey’s seasoning.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Stir gently yet thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Enjoy: Serve the turkey salad immediately or chill before serving. It’s perfect loaded on toasted whole grain bread with lettuce and additional mayo for a satisfying sandwich.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure all salad ingredients are finely diced.
- Adjust salt and pepper based on the seasoning of your leftover turkey.
- This salad can be eaten as is, or served as a sandwich filling or atop fresh greens.
- Adding extra mayo or lettuce can enhance the sandwich experience.
