Name: Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Salad for the Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked turkey, chopped; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 2 celery stalks, finely chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Why You’ll Love Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Salad for the Holidays Recipe

This holiday cranberry turkey salad is easy to make and wonderfully versatile. It takes simple ingredients like leftover turkey and dried cranberries and turns them into a satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunches, potlucks, or post-holiday meals. The sweet pop of cranberries paired with crunchy vegetables and a creamy dressing makes every bite delightful, and it comes together in just minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked turkey, diced or shredded
dried cranberries
celery, diced
red or white onion, minced
mayonnaise
plain yogurt or sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
lemon juice or Dijon mustard
salt and pepper
chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) for crunch
fresh herbs like parsley (optional)

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt or sour cream (if using), lemon juice or Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Add the diced or shredded cooked turkey, dried cranberries, diced celery, and minced onion to the dressing.
Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Stir in the nuts and herbs, if using.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill the salad for at least 15–30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

Servings: about 4–6 (depending on portion size)
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 10–15 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover turkey salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–5 days. For best texture, add nuts just before serving so they stay crisp. Do not freeze, as the dressing and turkey texture can change unfavorably when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours ahead. In fact, chilling it allows the flavors to develop more fully.

What can I substitute for dried cranberries?

If you don’t have dried cranberries, you can use dried cherries, raisins, or even chopped fresh apples for a sweet contrast.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely — rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken works just as well and makes this salad a great all-season dish.

Is there a way to make this lighter?

Yes, swapping part or all of the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt lightens the dressing while keeping it creamy.

How should I serve this cranberry turkey salad?

Serve it on toasted bread, croissants, in wraps, over greens, or with crackers for a satisfying meal or snack.

Can I add other mix-ins to this salad?

Yes — chopped apples, grapes, celery seeds, or even shredded cabbage add extra texture and flavor.

How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for about 3–5 days.

Can I skip the nuts?

Yes — if you have nut allergies or prefer no nuts, simply omit them or substitute seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

What kind of mustard can I use?

Dijon or whole grain mustard adds tang, but if you prefer milder flavor, you can omit it or use a bit of lemon juice instead.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the basic ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check packaged ingredient labels if you need to be certain.

Conclusion

This cranberry turkey salad is a delicious and creative way to enjoy holiday leftovers or make a fresh, satisfying meal any time. With its creamy dressing, sweet-tart cranberries, and crunchy vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Tailor it to your taste and enjoy its festive flavors well beyond the holiday table.

Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Salad for the Holidays

Why You’ll Love Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Salad for the Holidays Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Storage/Reheating