When it comes to salads, few proteins are as versatile and delicious as turkey. Whether you’re looking for a classic Caesar-inspired dish or something with a bit more flair, there’s a turkey salad recipe out there for every occasion. From casual gatherings to special events, these 20 mouthwatering recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different flavors and cuisines that showcase the star of the show: turkey. With ingredients like cranberries, avocado, feta cheese, and more, these salads offer something for everyone. So why settle for just one boring old salad when you can have twenty? Dive in and discover your new favorite way to enjoy turkey!
Classic Turkey Caesar Salad
A timeless favorite that combines tender turkey, crisp romaine lettuce, and savory Caesar dressing, this salad is a perfect choice for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing
– 1 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 diced turkey breast.
2. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the top of the salad and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle croutons and Parmesan cheese over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 10 minutes (total)
Cranberry Walnut Turkey Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of roasted turkey, crunchy walnuts, and tangy cranberries to create a perfect blend of sweet and savory. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced turkey breast, cranberries, and walnuts.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar; toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Asian-Inspired Turkey Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Asia with the heartiness of turkey, all tied together with a creamy sesame dressing. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced turkey, scallions, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Southwest Turkey Salad with Avocado and Lime
A refreshing twist on traditional turkey salad, this recipe combines the flavors of the Southwest with creamy avocado and a squeeze of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, avocado, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide mixed greens among four plates or bowls. Top each plate with the turkey-avocado mixture.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Greek-Style Turkey Salad with Feta and Olives
A refreshing twist on traditional turkey salad, this Greek-inspired recipe adds the tanginess of feta cheese and brininess of olives for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, turkey breast, feta cheese, olives, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional feta cheese and olives if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time only)
Turkey Cobb Salad with Bacon and Blue Cheese
A classic salad gets a boost of flavor and texture from crispy bacon, tangy blue cheese, and savory turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup diced cooked turkey breast
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, turkey breast, crumbled bacon, blue cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and sliced egg.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Dijon mustard.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Apple Pecan Turkey Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this crunchy and tangy salad featuring tender turkey, crisp apples, and toasted pecans. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons honey mustard dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, apple, pecans, and blue cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey mustard dressing ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Honey Mustard Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Buffalo Turkey Salad with Spicy Ranch Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this bold and tangy recipe that combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with tender turkey, crunchy veggies, and a creamy spicy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, cheddar cheese, celery, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce and ranch dressing.
3. Pour the spicy ranch dressing over the turkey mixture and toss until 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: None required! This salad is best served chilled, so feel free to prep ahead of time.
Mediterranean Turkey Salad with Chickpeas and Cucumber
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavors of turkey, chickpeas, and feta cheese with the coolness of cucumber and a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey, chickpeas, cucumber slices, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Turkey Taco Salad with Chipotle Dressing
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines juicy turkey, crunchy taco seasoning, and a spicy kick from chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, turkey, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and queso fresco.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, taco seasoning, and chipotle peppers until smooth.
3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pesto Turkey Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of pesto, turkey, and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a healthy snack. With its vibrant green color and tangy zip, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced turkey breast, and sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with pesto sauce and toss to coat.
3. Top with cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey Waldorf Salad with Grapes and Celery
A classic salad gets a refreshing twist with the addition of juicy grapes and crunchy celery.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, celery, and grapes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Add parsley to the dressing and stir to combine.
4. Pour the dressing over the turkey mixture and toss to coat.
5. Divide mixed greens among four plates and top each with the turkey salad.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
BBQ Turkey Salad with Corn and Black Beans
A refreshing twist on traditional turkey salad, this recipe adds sweet corn and creamy black beans to create a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Add diced turkey, corn kernels, black beans, red onion, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl.
4. Toss to combine.
5. Divide mixed greens among four plates.
6. Top each plate with the turkey mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavor of roasted turkey with the nutty taste of quinoa, all tied together with a bright and citrusy lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, turkey, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil to make the vinaigrette.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are pre-cooked)
Spinach and Turkey Salad with Strawberries and Almonds
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavor of spinach, the savory taste of turkey, and the sweetness of strawberries and almonds.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves and diced turkey.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture and toss to coat.
4. Top the salad with sliced strawberries and chopped almonds.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey Club Salad with Ranch Dressing
A refreshing twist on the classic club sandwich, this Turkey Club Salad combines juicy turkey breast, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing with crisp greens and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach)
– 4 oz cooked turkey breast, diced
– 6 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce and mixed greens.
2. Top with diced turkey breast, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber.
3. Drizzle with ranch dressing and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Thai Turkey Salad with Peanut Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Thailand with the comfort of turkey, all tied together with a creamy peanut dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/2 cup crumbled peanuts
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, scallions, and turkey.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with peanuts and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey and Mango Salad with Coconut Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of turkey, mango, and coconut to create a unique and delicious twist on traditional greens. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, mango, cilantro, and mixed greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut, lime juice, and olive oil to create the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle shredded coconut on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A fresh twist on the classic Italian salad, this Turkey Caprese combines the flavors of juicy turkey, creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the turkey slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese on a large plate or platter.
4. Top with grilled turkey breast and drizzle with balsamic glaze (see below).
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Balsamic Glaze:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Combine the balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the glaze by half, stirring occasionally. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of farro with roasted vegetables and tender turkey, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With its colorful presentation and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and red bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, diced turkey, and roasted vegetables.
3. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salad game with these 20 delicious turkey salad recipes! From classic combinations like Caesar and Cobb, to international twists like Asian-inspired and Mediterranean-style salads, there’s something for every occasion. Try adding cranberries and walnuts for a sweet and crunchy touch, or give your taste buds a kick with spicy buffalo dressing. With an array of flavors and textures, these turkey salad recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
