Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further! Turkey salads are a great way to use up leftover turkey or cook some fresh turkey breast, and with so many different flavor combinations out there, you’re sure to find one that suits your taste. From classic Caesar to international-inspired flavors like Thai peanut and Mediterranean feta, we’ve got 20 scrumptious turkey salad recipes for every occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or need a quick and healthy lunch option, these turkey salads are sure to please. Plus, many of them can be customized with your favorite greens, nuts, and veggies, so feel free to get creative!
In this article, we’ll take a tour around the world and explore the many delicious possibilities of turkey salad. So grab a fork and let’s dig in!
Classic Turkey Caesar Salad
A timeless favorite that combines the savory flavors of turkey, croutons, and Parmesan cheese with the tangy zip of a classic Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and sliced turkey breast.
2. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the top, tossing gently to coat.
3. Sprinkle croutons and Parmesan cheese evenly over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cranberry Walnut Turkey Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional turkey salads, this recipe combines the savory flavors of roasted turkey with the sweet and tangy taste of cranberries and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey, cranberries, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the turkey mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide the mixed greens among four plates or bowls.
6. Spoon the turkey salad on top of the greens.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Avocado Ranch Turkey Salad
A creamy and refreshing twist on traditional turkey salad, this recipe combines the richness of avocado with the tanginess of ranch dressing for a flavor profile that’s sure to please. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced turkey, avocado, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing mixture over the turkey mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Southwest Turkey Salad with Chipotle Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of Southwestern cuisine with a kick from chipotle peppers. A perfect blend of spicy and savory, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and queso fresco.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chipotle pepper, lime juice, and olive oil to make the dressing.
3. Add the diced turkey breast to the salad and toss with the Chipotle Dressing until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Greek-Style Turkey Salad with Feta
A refreshing twist on traditional turkey salad, this Greek-inspired recipe combines juicy turkey breast, crunchy cucumber, tangy feta cheese, and savory olives for a flavorful and healthy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey breast, feta cheese, cucumber, olives, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Apple Pecan Turkey Salad
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavor of turkey with the crunch of pecans, sweetness of apples, and tanginess of feta cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, pecans, apple, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle parsley on top and season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Buffalo Turkey Salad with Blue Cheese
A spicy twist on traditional turkey salad, this recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with creamy blue cheese and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce and diced turkey breast until coated.
2. Add mixed greens, blue cheese, celery, and red onion to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Asian Turkey Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines juicy turkey breast with crunchy vegetables and a creamy sesame dressing, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell peppers, cucumber, and scallions.
2. Add the diced turkey breast on top of the vegetables.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Bacon Ranch Turkey Salad
Elevate your turkey salad game with this mouthwatering combination of crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh greens. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey, bacon, and mixed greens.
2. Drizzle the ranch dressing over the top and toss until the greens are coated.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and toss gently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Turkey Salad with Olives
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece and the Mediterranean, featuring juicy turkey, crunchy cucumbers, and savory olives. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, olives, cucumber, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spinach and Turkey Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A refreshing twist on the classic turkey salad, this recipe combines tender turkey breast with crisp spinach, tangy balsamic glaze, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey breast, spinach leaves, feta cheese (if using), and pecans (if using).
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Spoon the balsamic glaze over the salad and toss again to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Curried Turkey Salad with Raisins
Elevate your turkey salad game with this aromatic and sweet take, featuring a blend of warm spices and juicy raisins. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, mayonnaise, cilantro, curry powder, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in raisins.
3. Divide the mixture among individual serving bowls or plates.
4. Top with mixed greens.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pesto Turkey Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of pesto, turkey, and sun-dried tomatoes, making it a perfect meal for a warm day. With its vibrant colors and bold taste, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced turkey breast, pesto, and mixed greens.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the salad mixture.
3. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
BBQ Turkey Salad with Corn and Black Beans
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of BBQ turkey with sweet corn and savory black beans, all on top of a bed of crisp greens. It’s perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked corn kernels
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced turkey, corn kernels, and black beans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and chopped cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Harvest Turkey Salad with Sweet Potatoes
Celebrate the flavors of harvest season with this delightful salad, featuring tender turkey, sweet roasted sweet potatoes, and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, sage, or thyme)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced turkey, and roasted sweet potatoes.
4. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs and crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Turkey Salad with Peanut Dressing
Thai Turkey Salad with Peanut Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Thai-inspired dish combines the savory flavor of turkey with the creamy richness of peanut dressing and the crunch of mixed greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/2 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced turkey, sliced red bell pepper, grated carrots, and chopped cilantro.
3. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Caprese Turkey Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Experience the perfect blend of Italian flavors with this refreshing turkey salad. Sliced turkey breast, fresh mozzarella cheese, and sweet tomatoes come together to create a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey breast, tomato slices, and mozzarella cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Top the salad with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Turkey Cobb Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs
A classic salad with a twist, this Turkey Cobb Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of turkey, bacon, avocado, and eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, romaine lettuce, red bell pepper, and blue cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with diced avocado and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey Taco Salad with Lime Crema
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of turkey tacos with a zesty lime crema, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, and queso fresco.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the lime crema over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with diced avocado, sour cream, and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Waldorf Turkey Salad with Grapes and Celery
A classic salad that combines tender turkey, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and creamy dressing for a delightful and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
– 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, grapes, and celery.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the turkey mixture and toss until coated.
4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your salad game with these 20 mouth-watering turkey salad recipes! From classic Caesar to international twists like Thai and Mediterranean, there’s something for every occasion. Try adding crunchy elements like walnuts or crispy bacon, or go bold with spicy chipotle dressing. Fancy a fruit-based salad? Apple pecan is the perfect combination. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a show-stopping dinner party dish, these turkey salads are sure to impress.