Best 2 Festive Fall Turkey Salad Recipes

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, it's time to celebrate the arrival of fall with a festive and flavorful dish. Our festive fall turkey salad is a delightful combination of roasted turkey, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, creamy blue cheese, and a tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey. Served on a bed of fresh mixed greens, this salad is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

In addition to the main turkey salad recipe, this article also includes several variations to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. For those who prefer a lighter option, we offer a Greek yogurt-based dressing and a quinoa base instead of mixed greens. For those who love avocado, we have an avocado and bacon variation that adds a creamy and smoky flavor to the salad. And for those who are allergic to walnuts or simply don't like them, we provide suggestions for alternative nuts, such as pecans, almonds, or pistachios.

No matter which variation you choose, our festive fall turkey salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. It's easy to make, packed with flavor, and a beautiful addition to any fall table. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let's get cooking!

Let's cook with our recipes!

CONTEST-WINNING FESTIVE TOSSED SALAD

Contest-Winning Festive Tossed Salad image

With its unique medley of fruits and festive look, this tossed salad is a holiday tradition at our house. Our three grown daughters have come to expect it. One forkful reminds us of all the things we can be thankful for. -Jauneen Hosking, Waterford, Wisconsin

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 15m

Yield 10 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

1/3 cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup canola oil
2 to 3 teaspoons poppy seeds
10 cups torn romaine
1 medium pear, chopped
1 medium apple, chopped
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1/2 to 1 cup chopped cashews
1/4 cup dried cranberries

Steps:

For dressing, place first five ingredients in a blender; cover and process until blended. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Add poppy seeds; pulse just until combined. , To serve, place remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Toss with dressing.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 288 calories, Fat 21g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 10mg cholesterol, Sodium 195mg sodium, Carbohydrate 22g carbohydrate (16g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 5g protein.

BLACK FRIDAY TURKEY SALAD

Black Friday Turkey Salad image

This turkey salad is my original creation. I got a craving the day after Thanksgiving last year and spent the afternoon creating this delicious turkey salad.

Provided by The Copes

Categories Salad

Time 20m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

½ cup mayonnaise (such as Hellman's®)
3 tablespoons prepared yellow mustard (such as Plochman's®)
2 tablespoons crumbled cooked bacon
¾ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
½ cup finely chopped pepperoncini
⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper
salt, to taste
2 cups coarsely chopped leftover turkey

Steps:

Stir together mayonnaise, mustard, bacon, Cheddar cheese, relish, pepperoncini, red pepper, and salt in a large bowl; add the turkey and stir to coat.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 214.5 calories, Carbohydrate 1.5 g, Cholesterol 44.2 mg, Fat 16.9 g, Fiber 0.4 g, Protein 14.2 g, SaturatedFat 4.6 g, Sodium 617.2 mg, Sugar 0.3 g

Tips:

Prep Your Turkey: Whether using leftover turkey or cooking it specifically for this salad, ensure it's properly roasted or cooked through.
Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients possible for optimal flavor. Crisp celery, tender grapes, and crunchy pecans add texture and taste.
Homemade Dressing: Elevate your salad with a homemade dressing. The recipe provides a simple dressing with a tangy-sweet balance, but feel free to experiment with other dressings that complement the flavors.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall taste experience.
Garnish for Presentation: Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives over the salad for a vibrant pop of color and added freshness.

Conclusion:

This festive fall turkey salad is a delightful dish that combines classic fall flavors with the convenience of using leftover turkey. Its vibrant colors, textures, and flavors make it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or autumn gatherings. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this salad is sure to impress. With its ease of preparation, versatility, and delicious taste, this recipe is a keeper for any home cook looking to create a memorable fall-inspired meal.