This Smoked Turkey Salad recipe is one I’m surprised I didn’t make sooner. I love using holiday smoked turkey leftovers, and turning those tender slices into a flavorful turkey salad makes an easy, satisfying lunch the day after smoking a bird.
This version is adapted from my smoked chicken salad method, which I regularly pack for work lunches. Leftover smoked turkey brings a smoky depth that pairs perfectly with crunchy veggies and a creamy dressing.
Smoked Turkey Salad Ingredients:
- Leftover smoked turkey breast (or any smoked turkey)
- Red onion, finely diced
- Mayonnaise
- Garlic powder
- Salt and ground black pepper
- Celery, chopped
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How To Make Smoked Turkey Salad:
This recipe was made with leftover smoked turkey breast, but other smoked turkey cuts work just as well. Use whatever you have on hand and adjust seasonings to taste.
1. Shred the smoked turkey into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Chop the vegetables — onion and celery — to the size you prefer for texture.
3. In a mixing bowl combine the turkey, chopped veggies, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir until the salad reaches the consistency you like. Add more mayo for a creamier texture or a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
5. Refrigerate in an airtight container. Consume within four days for best quality.
6. Serve on bread, a bun, a bed of greens, or enjoy straight from the bowl. Enjoy!
What’s your favorite add-in for turkey salad?
Alternative Mix-Ins For Smoked Turkey Salad:
Feel free to switch up the salad by adding one or more of the following ingredients to vary flavor and texture.
- Dill relish
- Miracle Whip or a tangier dressing
- Diced bell peppers
- Smoked paprika
- A drop or two of liquid smoke
- Chili paste for heat
- Grapes for sweetness
- Pecans or sliced almonds for crunch
- Celery seeds for extra flavor
What Types Of Bread To Serve Smoked Turkey Salad On:
- Hoagie buns
- Brioche buns
- Wheat bread
- Garlic bread
- French rolls
- Ciabatta buns
How To Store Leftover Turkey Salad
Store turkey salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If the salad contains perishable mix-ins like fresh fruit or dairy-based dressings, consume within that timeframe for safety and best taste.
Best Uses For Leftover Smoked Turkey
Leftover smoked turkey is versatile. Use it in salads, pot pies, soups, casseroles, or sandwiches. It freezes well for later meals, or you can repurpose it on the griddle or in a skillet for a quick dinner.
Smoked Turkey Tips
A dry rub or a brine both work great for smoking turkey. Brining adds moisture and flavor; a dry rub amps up the exterior seasoning. There’s no single right way to smoke a turkey — experiment and find the method you prefer.
Smoked Turkey Salad Recipe
Guy Who Grills
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Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- Leftover smoked turkey, shredded
- Red onion, finely diced
- Mayonnaise, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Celery, chopped
Instructions
- Use leftover smoked turkey breast or any smoked turkey you have on hand.
- Shred the turkey into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the vegetables to your preferred size.
- Combine turkey, vegetables, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stir until you reach the desired consistency, adjusting mayonnaise or seasonings as needed.
- Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to four days.
- Serve on bread, a bun, or over greens and enjoy.
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Let us know how it was!