If you’re looking for a bright, flavorful dish that turns simple leftovers into a star meal, this Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe is the answer you’ve been waiting for. It’s a beautiful medley of tender turkey, juicy dried cranberries, crunchy toasted pecans, and crisp veggies all bound together by a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that will have you coming back for seconds. Perfect for a quick lunch or an impressive yet effortless gathering dish, this salad delivers a winning combination of textures and flavors that feel both cozy and fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients for a salad placed on a white marbled surface. There is a large clear measuring cup filled with shredded cooked chicken, which is seasoned and has a light brown color. A white plate holds four separate piles arranged neatly in a circle: chopped green celery, finely diced purple and white red onion, bright red dried cranberries, and brown chopped pecans. In front of the plate is a whole yellow lemon. To the right, a clear measuring cup contains a creamy white mayonnaise-like mixture, and next to it is a small white bowl with a swirl of yellow mustard. In the foreground, a small white square dish holds salt, black pepper, and dried herbs. The composition is bright and clean, focusing on the contrasting colors and textures of the ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the essential ingredients for this Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe is a breeze because each component plays a vital role. From the hearty turkey to the crunchy pecans and the bright pop of cranberries, every element contributes to a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color.

3 cups chopped leftover turkey: Using leftover turkey adds a savory and satisfying base with great protein.
1/2 cup diced celery: Provides a refreshing crunch that lightens up the texture.
1/4 cup chopped red onion: Adds a subtle sharpness and a splash of color.
½ cup dried cranberries: Brings a natural sweetness and chewy texture that brightens every bite.
¼ cup toasted pecans: Toasting pecans deepens their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
1 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy, luscious dressing that holds the salad together.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Introduces a gentle tang and complexity to the dressing.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Gives a fresh, zesty lift that balances the richness.
2 teaspoons sugar: Provides a hint of sweetness to complement the tart cranberries.
½ teaspoon poultry seasoning: Ties all the flavors together with aromatic herbs.
½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle kick to round out the flavor profile.
Bread for serving: Thick slices or buttery croissants are perfect for scooping up the salad.

How to Make Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients

Start by placing the chopped leftover turkey, diced celery, chopped red onion, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans into a large mixing bowl. This mix is the foundation of your salad, bringing together crunchy, juicy, and meaty components that create an inviting texture and flavor profile.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, sugar, poultry seasoning, and pepper until smooth and well blended. This dressing is the magic that binds the salad ingredients, balancing sweet, tangy, and savory notes all at once.

Step 3: Toss and Combine

Pour the creamy dressing over the turkey and veggie mixture, then gently stir to combine everything evenly. Make sure every bite gets a bit of that delicious dressing, cranberries, and pecans for a perfect balance.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe piled high on thick slices of fresh bread or nestled inside buttery croissants. This not only helps transform the salad into a satisfying meal but also adds a comforting, hearty contrast to the cool, creamy filling.

How to Serve Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe

In the clear glass mixing bowl, there is a creamy mixture with visible layers of light yellow dressing coating small pieces of light tan shredded chicken, bright green celery chunks, and dark red dried cranberries. The texture looks thick and rich, with the ingredients evenly mixed throughout. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and no woman's hand is visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a few fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans on top elevates the dish visually and adds a subtle burst of freshness or crunch. For a pop of color, some thinly sliced green onions or a light dusting of paprika can make your Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with light and crisp sides like a simple mixed green salad, roasted seasonal vegetables, or even a bowl of warm butternut squash soup. These accompaniments complement the flavors while keeping the meal balanced and delightful.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe to the next level by serving it inside hollowed-out avocados, atop crunchy lettuce leaves, or as a filling for mini slider buns. These creative presentations are perfect for entertaining or making your lunch feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld more as the salad sits, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days or packed lunches.

Freezing

Because of the mayonnaise and fresh ingredients, this salad does not freeze well. Freezing can affect the texture of the celery and mayonnaise, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, allow refrigerated leftovers to sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving to bring back the creamy texture without reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?

Absolutely! Freshly cooked turkey breast can be chopped and used in this recipe, giving you the same delicious flavor with a slightly different texture.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a mixture of yogurt and a little olive oil to keep it creamy but lighter and tangier.

Are there any nut-free substitutions for pecans?

Yes, you can omit pecans altogether or replace them with toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without nuts.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

For sure! Chopped apples or grapes work beautifully alongside cranberries, adding freshness and an extra sweet note to the salad.

How long does this Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe last?

Stored properly in the fridge, it will stay fresh and tasty for about 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or planned leftovers.

Final Thoughts

If you want a turkey salad that feels both comforting and exciting, the Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe is a winner every time. It’s quick, easy, and full of satisfying textures and flavors that turn simple ingredients into something special. Go ahead and give it a try — I promise it will become one of your go-to recipes for using up leftover turkey or just treating yourself to a delicious, wholesome meal.