Description
A classic, easy-to-make sandwich featuring tender cooked turkey, often leftover, mixed with mayonnaise, celery, and a touch of seasoning. It’s a light yet satisfying meal, perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded (leftover roast turkey, rotisserie chicken, or deli turkey works great)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion or chives (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a little tang)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Favorite bread for serving (e.g., whole wheat, sourdough, rye, brioche)
- Optional additions: lettuce leaves, tomato slices, cucumber slices, sprouts, pickles
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced or shredded cooked turkey, mayonnaise, finely diced celery, red onion or chives (if using), lemon juice (if using), and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the turkey is coated.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- If time allows, cover the bowl and refrigerate the turkey salad for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- To assemble sandwiches, spread a generous amount of turkey salad onto one slice of your favorite bread.
- Top with desired optional ingredients such as lettuce, tomato, or cucumber slices.
- Place another slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of dark and white turkey meat.
- Add a pinch of dried dill or parsley for extra herb flavor.
- For a touch of sweetness and texture, add 1-2 tablespoons of dried cranberries, chopped apples, or grapes.
- A sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky depth.
- Turkey salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Beyond sandwiches, turkey salad is great served on crackers, in lettuce cups, or scooped onto a bed of mixed greens.
- Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (approx. 150-200g)
- Calories: 300-500 (varies greatly based on bread, turkey type, and mayonnaise amount)
- Sugar: 2-8g
- Sodium: 300-800mg
- Fat: 15-30g
- Saturated Fat: 3-8g
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20-40g
- Fiber: 2-5g
- Protein: 20-30g
- Cholesterol: 50-100mg
Keywords: Turkey Salad, Sandwich, Leftover Turkey, Easy Lunch, Quick Meal, Picnic Food