If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and packed with a delightful balance of flavors, the Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Dill Recipe is your new go-to dish. This salad perfectly combines tender, savory turkey with the sweet pop of cranberries, the satisfying crunch of pecans, and the bright herbal notes of dill. It’s a versatile salad that’s just as lovely spooned onto a sandwich as it is mounded over crisp greens or nestled alongside your favorite crackers. Whether you have leftover turkey or want to craft a light yet fulfilling meal, this recipe makes it incredibly easy to create a dish bursting with color, texture, and irresistible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that each contribute something special to the overall flavor and texture. From crunchy celery to tangy vinaigrette, every element plays a vital role in making this turkey salad sing.
- 4 cups chopped cooked turkey: Choose moist, well-seasoned turkey for the salad’s rich protein base.
- 2 ribs celery, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, crisp texture that keeps every bite interesting.
- ½ cup dried cranberries: These bring a sweet, tart burst that brightens the whole dish.
- ½ cup chopped pecans: Provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy dressing.
- ¼ cup minced red onion: Gives a gentle pungency and vibrant color contrast.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that ties all the ingredients together smoothly.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds subtle sharpness and depth to the dressing.
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar): Offers a bright acidity that balances richness.
- ½ teaspoon dried dill: Brings herbal freshness and a delicate flavor lift.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle spice for rounding out the taste.
How to Make Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Dill Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by adding the chopped cooked turkey, finely chopped celery, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and minced red onion all into a large mixing bowl. Stir them together gently to evenly distribute the colors and textures, making sure every bite is as flavorful as the last. This mixture creates the hearty and vibrant base of your salad that’s just waiting to be dressed.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), dried dill, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This creamy, tangy dressing is the secret to tying all the ingredients into a luscious, well-balanced salad that feels indulgent yet fresh.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour your freshly made dressing over the turkey and mix-ins. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that every piece is coated with that vibrant dill-infused dressing. Take a moment to adjust seasoning if needed—it’s your chance to fine-tune the salad to perfection before serving.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Whether you’re spooning this salad onto your favorite sandwich bread, spreading it over crispy crackers, or layering it atop a bed of fresh greens, it’s ready to enjoy immediately. The combination of textures and flavors will make your taste buds sing and keep you coming back for more.
How to Serve Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Dill Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, try garnishing your turkey salad with a sprinkle of fresh dill or a few extra cranberries and pecans on top. A light drizzle of olive oil or a twist of lemon zest can brighten it further and add visual appeal, making this dish perfect for both casual meals and more formal gatherings.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple fruit platter. If you want heartier fare, grilled bread or a bowl of warm soup can turn this salad into a complete, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like mixing things up? Turn your salad into a colorful wrap with a spinach or flour tortilla, fill hollowed-out tomatoes or mini bell peppers for bite-sized appetizers, or serve it on endive leaves for a gorgeous, crunchy vessel. The Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Dill Recipe lends itself to endless creative presentations that delight the eyes as much as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely but happens!), store the turkey salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its freshness and texture without becoming soggy.
Freezing
This particular turkey salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing. Freezing mayonnaise-based salads can cause separation and alter the texture, so it’s best to prepare only what you’ll consume within a few days.
Reheating
Turkey salad is typically served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer a warm meal, consider pairing the turkey salad with a hot side dish instead of reheating the salad itself.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey for this salad?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly and is actually a great way to transform your meal into something fresh and exciting without much extra effort.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt or a mixture of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise can be a delicious substitute that still keeps the salad creamy.
Can I add other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds also work wonderfully and provide a similar crunchy texture with their own unique flavors.
How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this turkey salad stays fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Dill Recipe is ideal for meal prep as it comes together quickly and keeps well, making lunches or light dinners a breeze to enjoy throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Dill Recipe has quickly become a cherished favorite thanks to its perfect combination of sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy elements. It’s wonderfully easy to make but feels special enough for company or a comforting solo lunch. I encourage you to try it soon—you just might find it’s the perfect way to brighten up your week with both flavor and flair.
Print
Turkey Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Dill Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make Turkey Salad combining tender cooked turkey, crunchy celery, sweet dried cranberries, and toasted pecans, all brought together with a creamy Dijon mustard and red wine vinegar dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or served atop fresh greens.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped cooked turkey
- 2 ribs celery, finely chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup minced red onion
Dressing Ingredients
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dried dill
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chopped cooked turkey, finely chopped celery, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and minced red onion. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients together evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), dried dill, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until the dressing is smooth and fully combined.
- Toss the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the turkey mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly so the dressing coats all the salad ingredients uniformly.
- Serve: Serve the turkey salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy it as a filling in sandwiches, as a topping for crackers, or served on a bed of fresh salad greens for a light meal.
Notes
- For added crunch and flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
- Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
- Use leftover roasted turkey or deli turkey for convenience.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
