Sweet strawberries, savory turkey, crisp greens, and toasted almonds come together in this colorful turkey breast salad. A homemade balsamic maple dressing ties everything together with a balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
An Easy Leftover Turkey Salad
Leftover turkey salad recipes do not have to be complicated. Because the turkey is already cooked, most of the work is done for you. All that remains is slicing the strawberries and onion, whisking the dressing, and assembling the salad.
If you have been wondering what to make with leftover turkey breast, this recipe offers a bright alternative to sandwiches, casseroles, and creamy turkey salads. It is also one of those easy turkey salad ideas that can be adjusted based on the produce you have available.
How to Make a Fresh Strawberry Turkey Salad
Many turkey salads rely on mayonnaise, but this healthy turkey salad recipe takes a lighter approach. It starts with baby lettuce or mixed greens and adds fresh strawberries, sliced onion, toasted almonds, and lean turkey breast.
Ingredients
- 5 oz baby lettuce or mixed greens (about 6 cups)
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, cubed
- 2 cups sliced or quartered fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red or sweet onion
- 1/4 cup toasted, sliced almonds
The simple dressing is made with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. The result is a vibrant strawberry mixed green salad with plenty of flavor, texture, and protein.
Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation
Place lettuce, turkey, strawberries, and onions in a large bowl. Whisk together the dressing ingredients and drizzle over the salad; toss to combine. Serve immediately with the toasted almonds sprinkled over the top of the salad.
Tips for Making This Strawberry Mixed Green Salad
Toast the Almonds
Toasting the sliced almonds brings out their nutty flavor and gives the salad additional crunch. Watch them closely because sliced almonds can brown quickly.
Wait to Dress the Salad
Add the balsamic maple dressing immediately before serving. This helps the lettuce stay crisp instead of becoming soggy.
Use Cold Cooked Turkey
Allow freshly cooked turkey breast to cool completely before adding it to the greens. Warm turkey can wilt the lettuce.
Prepare the Components Ahead
You can cube the turkey, slice the onion and strawberries, toast the almonds, and whisk the dressing ahead of time. Refrigerate the ingredients separately, then assemble the salad just before serving.
What Can I Serve with Turkey Salad?
Serve this salad on its own for a light meal or pair it with crusty bread, a cup of soup, or a simple grain-based side dish for a more substantial lunch or dinner.
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