Name: Mouthwatering Black Friday Turkey Salad That's Blissfully Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Mayonnaise (Substitute with yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option.); 2 tablespoons Yellow Mustard (Mustard powder can be used as a substitute if needed.); 2 cups Leftover Turkey (Any cooked poultry can serve as a substitute.); 1 cup Crumbled Bacon (Use smoked paprika or vegan bacon for a vegetarian version.); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Can be swapped with dairy-free cheese.); 1 4 Dill Pickle Relish (Chopped pickles can be used if relish is unavailable.); 2 tablespoons Finely Chopped Pepperoncini (Substitute with banana peppers for a milder flavor.); 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper (Omit or reduce for a milder dish.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning.)

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As the last echoes of Thanksgiving dinner linger in the air, the challenge of what to do with those leftover turkey bits begins. Believe me, I’ve been there—staring into the fridge and feeling uninspired by the same old reheated plates. That’s why I whipped up this Savory Black Friday Turkey Salad, a delightful makeover of your holiday turkey that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Imagine a creamy blend of tangy mustard, smoky bacon, and crunchy pickles intermingling with tender turkey. It’s the kind of dish that not only revitalizes leftovers but also adds a festive flair to your post-holiday meals. Whether it’s piled high on fresh bread, served on crackers for a quick bite, or enjoyed straight from the bowl, this salad is a celebration of resourceful cooking that brings joy right into your kitchen. Join me as we transform those Thanksgiving remnants into a harmonious and satisfying dish that you’ll look forward to enjoying time and again!

Why will you love this Black Friday Turkey Salad?

Delicious Transformation: This recipe takes your leftover turkey and elevates it into a dish that feels brand new and exciting.
Creamy and Flavorful: With its perfect blend of mayonnaise and mustard, you’ll enjoy a rich taste that everyone will love.
Easy to Make: No complicated steps here—just mix, chill, and serve! It’s as simple as that, making it perfect for busy days.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on bread, crackers, or even lettuce leaves; it’s totally up to you!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for gatherings or a cozy meal at home, this salad satisfies every palate, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry.

Black Friday Turkey Salad Ingredients

• Elevate your leftovers with these essentials!

For the Salad Base

Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess and moisture; substitute with yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option.
Yellow Mustard – Adds tang; mustard powder can be used as a substitute if needed.
Leftover Turkey – The main ingredient tying the salad together; any cooked poultry can serve as a substitute if turkey isn’t available.

For Flavor and Texture

Crumbled Bacon – Enhances flavor with a smoky, salty crunch; for a vegetarian version, consider using smoked paprika or vegan bacon.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Contributes richness and creaminess; swap with dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
Dill Pickle Relish – Offers a sweet and tangy flavor; chopped pickles can be used if relish is unavailable.
Finely Chopped Pepperoncini – Adds mild heat and tanginess; substitute with banana peppers for a milder flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper – Introduces spiciness; omit or reduce for a milder dish.
Salt – Balances flavors; adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a delicious Black Friday Turkey Salad that transforms your leftovers into something truly special!

How to Make Black Friday Turkey Salad

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, dill pickle relish, finely chopped pepperoncini, crushed red pepper, and salt until everything is well blended.
Fold in Turkey: Gently fold in the coarsely chopped turkey, making sure every piece is covered in the flavorful mix. It should look deliciously creamy!
Taste & Adjust: Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepperoncini, or crushed red pepper for that extra kick.
Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is essential for the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Serve: Serve the salad chilled on your choice of bread, crackers, or even lettuce wraps for a refreshing bite!

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Black Friday Turkey Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. However, note that texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating: If desired, allow the salad to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Give it a good stir to reintroduce the flavors.

Serving Cold: This salad is best enjoyed chilled; if it thickens in the fridge, a splash of mayonnaise or yogurt can restore its creamy texture.

Black Friday Turkey Salad Variations

Feel free to make this delightful salad your own by trying out these fun and tasty variations!

Yogurt Swap: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy and lighter version of the salad, without sacrificing creaminess.
Herb Infusion: Add freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill to brighten the salad and add an aromatic touch that complements the turkey beautifully.
Fruity Twist: Toss in diced apples or grapes for a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients, adding a refreshing crunch that kids will love.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor that elevates the entire eating experience.
Vegetarian Delight: For a meat-free option, swap turkey for chickpeas and replace crumbled bacon with smoked paprika for a hearty salad that’s oh-so-satisfying.
Chili Heat: Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you’re in the mood for a fiery kick!
Cheesy Change: Substitute cheddar with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor profile that pairs well with the creamy base.
Crispy Veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or celery to add a crunchy texture that enhances every bite while making it even more wholesome.

What to Serve with Black Friday Turkey Salad?

Creating the perfect meal around this savory salad can elevate your dining experience and satisfy everyone at the table.

Crispy Green Salad: A light, refreshing side salad brings a crunchy contrast that complements the creamy turkey salad beautifully. Toss in a mix of your favorite greens with a simple vinaigrette for a fresh balance.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for scooping and enjoying with the turkey salad, providing a satisfying warmth that complements its flavors. You can even use them to create mini sandwiches!
Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness and crispy texture of sweet potato fries add an unexpected twist while balancing the savory elements of the salad. Pairing them with a creamy dip can enhance your plate!
Apple Cider: This slightly sweet and tangy drink pairs perfectly with the richness of the turkey salad, refreshing your palate between bites while adding a seasonal touch.
Simple Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup adds a cozy element to your meal, making it feel hearty without overshadowing the star of the show. The comforting warmth will be perfect alongside the chilled salad.
Fruit Salad: A bowl of mixed fruits can add a burst of freshness, helping to cleanse the palate and compliment the savory turkey salad with its natural sweetness.

Enjoy these delightful pairings to create a well-rounded meal that brings comfort and joy long after Thanksgiving!

Make Ahead Options

These Black Friday Turkey Salad options are perfect for those who want to save time on busy days! You can prepare the salad base (excluding the turkey) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just mix together the mayonnaise, mustard, bacon, cheese, relish, pepperoncini, red pepper, and salt, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply fold in the chopped leftover turkey to keep the meat juicy and prevent it from drying out. This method not only enhances the flavors but also provides a fresh, delicious meal with minimal effort while ensuring it’s just as delightful as when first made!

Expert Tips for Black Friday Turkey Salad

Chill Time Matters: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes is essential, as it melds the flavors together beautifully. Don’t skip this step!
Taste as You Go: Always taste the mixture before seasonings. Salty ingredients like bacon and cheese can easily overpower the dish if you’re not careful.
Mix It Up: Feel free to throw in some extra veggies like celery or bell peppers for added crunch and freshness in your Black Friday Turkey Salad.
Swap Ingredients: Customize your salad by substituting mayonnaise with yogurt for a lighter version or using smoked paprika as a vegetarian alternative to bacon.
Serving Suggestions: This salad is versatile; try serving it on bread, crackers, or lettuce wraps for a delightful eating experience!

Black Friday Turkey Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of turkey is best for this salad?
Absolutely! Use leftover turkey from your Thanksgiving feast for the best flavor. If you don’t have turkey, any cooked poultry like chicken can also work. Just ensure it’s shredded or chopped into small pieces for easy mixing.

How should I store my Black Friday Turkey Salad?
Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat while allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully. For optimal taste, try to consume it within this timeframe.

Can I freeze this turkey salad?
While you can freeze the Black Friday Turkey Salad for up to 2 months, I recommend caution with freezing due to potential texture changes. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and gently stir before serving to reintroduce the creamy consistency.

What can I do if my salad is too salty?
If the salad ends up too salty, try adding a diced potato or a bit more turkey to help absorb the excess salt. Another great option is to mix in a little more mayonnaise or yogurt to balance the flavors. Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before tasting again.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This salad contains mayonnaise, bacon, and cheese, which may not be suitable for certain diets, particularly for those with lactose intolerance or looking for vegetarian options. I often recommend substituting yogurt for mayonnaise, using vegan bacon, and opting for dairy-free cheese. Always check for allergies when serving to others!

Can I add other ingredients to my Black Friday Turkey Salad?
Very! Feel free to personalize your salad by adding diced apples for sweetness, chopped celery for crunch, or fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of flavor. The more, the merrier when it comes to making this dish your own!