If you’re on the lookout for an unforgettable lunch that’s both satisfying and full of delightful textures, this Turkey Salad Sandwich Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Packed with tender turkey, creamy mayonnaise and hummus, crunchy pecans, and juicy grapes, it hits every craving note. It’s the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors wrapped up in a convenient sandwich. Once you try this recipe, your lunch routine will never be the same again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Turkey Salad Sandwich Recipe calls for some simple but essential ingredients that come together beautifully to create a balanced and flavorful dish. Each component is chosen not just for taste but also to add a distinct texture and pop of color that makes every bite exciting.
- 4 cups cooked turkey: Shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces, this is the hearty base of the salad.
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise: Adds creamy richness and helps bind everything together.
- ⅓ cup plain hummus: Provides a subtle, nutty creaminess and a healthier twist on the traditional mayo-only salad.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and warmth.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Brings a zingy depth that cuts through the creaminess.
- 1 ½ tablespoons finely chopped dill: Provides a fresh, aromatic lift that brightens the salad.
- ½ cup finely diced celery: Adds delightful crunch and a refreshing contrast.
- ¾ cup pecans (toasted): Toasting intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a satisfying texture.
- 1 cup grapes (cut into bite-sized pieces): Sweet and juicy, grapes balance the savory notes with freshness.
How to Make Turkey Salad Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Creamy Ingredients with Turkey
Start by placing the shredded turkey in a large bowl. Add mayonnaise, plain hummus, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until the turkey pieces are thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture. This is where those rich and tangy flavors start melding beautifully.
Step 2: Incorporate the Mix-Ins
Gently fold in the chopped dill, diced celery, toasted pecans, and grape pieces. Take your time so you don’t crush the grapes; their juicy burst in every bite is a star feature of this recipe. The combination of crunchy celery and pecans with sweet grapes creates a texture party your taste buds won’t forget.
Step 3: Chill for Best Flavor
If you have a couple of hours, cover the bowl and refrigerate the turkey salad. Chilling allows the flavors to marry and develop, making the Turkey Salad Sandwich Recipe taste even more incredible. However, if you’re in a rush, it’s still fantastic served immediately.
Step 4: Assemble Your Sandwich
Spread a generous scoop of the turkey salad between your favorite bread slices. Whether you prefer a classic sandwich bun, hearty whole grain bread, or even a light wrap, it’s guaranteed to be delicious. Now you’re ready to savor every bite of this fresh, flavorful sandwich!
How to Serve Turkey Salad Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped dill or a few additional pecans on top adds a beautiful visual touch and an extra layer of flavor right before serving. For a fresh punch, a few thin slices of cucumber or a leaf of crisp lettuce inside the sandwich enhances both crunch and presentation.
Side Dishes
This Turkey Salad Sandwich pairs wonderfully with light and simple sides like a crisp green salad, kettle-cooked chips, or a handful of crunchy carrot sticks. The key is to complement the sandwich without overshadowing its tasty layers.
Creative Ways to Present
Switch things up by serving the turkey salad in lettuce cups for a low-carb option or on crackers for an elegant appetizer. You can also turn this recipe into a colorful turkey salad wrap with spinach or tomato tortillas for a portable meal perfect for picnics or lunchboxes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover turkey salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect to enjoy again without losing any of its wonderful texture or flavor.
Freezing
Because of the fresh grapes and crunchy nuts, freezing is not recommended for this Turkey Salad Sandwich Recipe. Freezing would negatively affect the texture and flavor of these key ingredients.
Reheating
This turkey salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want a warm sandwich experience, simply toast the bread separately and then assemble the sandwich with the chilled turkey salad filling just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked turkey is perfect for this salad. It makes great use of what you have on hand while offering a fresh take on post-holiday meals or roasted turkey dinners.
What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?
Sunflower seeds or toasted pumpkin seeds are excellent nut-free alternatives that still add crunch and a bit of nuttiness.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Since this recipe uses mayonnaise and hummus, it’s typically dairy-free already. Just ensure your mayonnaise brand does not contain dairy and use plain hummus without dairy ingredients.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
For the best flavor, chill the turkey salad for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows all the ingredients to meld and enhances the overall taste experience.
Can I prepare the turkey salad a day ahead?
Yes, making this Turkey Salad Sandwich Recipe a day in advance is a great idea for busy days or gatherings. Just store it in the refrigerator and assemble your sandwiches right before serving.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Turkey Salad Sandwich Recipe, it might just become your new favorite go-to lunch. It’s quick to whip up, packed with layers of flavor and texture, and endlessly versatile. So grab your ingredients and enjoy creating a delicious sandwich that feels both comforting and exciting in every bite!
Print
Turkey Salad Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (includes optional chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Turkey Salad Sandwich recipe featuring shredded turkey mixed with creamy mayonnaise and hummus, tangy Dijon mustard, fresh dill, crunchy celery and toasted pecans, and sweet grapes. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, this refreshing sandwich filling can also be served in lettuce wraps or with crackers.
Ingredients
Turkey Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked turkey (shredded, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup plain hummus
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ tablespoons finely chopped dill
- ½ cup finely diced celery
- ¾ cup pecans (toasted)
- 1 cup grapes (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add the shredded cooked turkey, mayonnaise, plain hummus, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to make sure the turkey is thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Add mix-ins: Gently fold in the finely chopped dill, diced celery, toasted pecans, and bite-sized grapes. Stir just until everything is combined to avoid breaking the grapes apart.
- Chill (optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the turkey salad for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Spoon the turkey salad onto sandwich bread to make sandwiches, use as a filling in lettuce wraps, or serve alongside crackers for a versatile, tasty meal.
Notes
- Chilling the turkey salad enhances the flavors but is optional if you’re short on time.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- Use seedless grapes to prevent seeds from interfering with the texture.
- For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and use low-fat hummus.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste after mixing.
