Now that the holiday season is over, you may find yourself with a surplus of turkey leftovers. But instead of mindlessly reheating the same old meals, why not try incorporating your leftover turkey into some healthy and delicious recipes? Not only is this a great way to reduce food waste, but it’s also a smart and budget-friendly approach to meal planning. Whether you’re craving a hearty soup or a fresh salad, there are plenty of creative and nutritious options to choose from. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best healthy recipes for leftover turkey that are sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling energized.
Why Use Leftover Turkey?
Leftover turkey is a popular ingredient for cooking healthy meals, especially during holidays where we tend to have plenty of it. Instead of wasting the remaining turkey or just reheating it, transforming it into delicious and nutritious dishes makes for an excellent option. Here are some benefits of using leftover turkey for healthy recipes rather than starting from scratch:
1. Time-Saving
Cooking with leftover turkey saves time since the meat is already cooked. You do not have to wait for hours to prepare and cook it. This means that you can make a healthy meal in less time, which is especially beneficial during busy workdays. You can prepare the turkey in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. This way, when you are ready to use it, you will only need to add the remaining ingredients, and you will be good to go!
Furthermore, using turkey as a staple ingredient in your recipes cuts down prep time since it’s already cooked. Roasting a turkey usually takes a few hours, so having leftover turkey in your fridge or freezer can be a lifesaver. Plus, you can customize your meals based on your taste preference and dietary needs by adding healthy sides or mixing with different ingredients.
2. Lowers Costs
Purchasing turkey for cooking can be expensive, especially if it’s your primary source of protein. A great way to cut down on costs is to use leftover turkey to prepare healthy meals. You can transform leftover turkey into various meals such as stir-fry, salads, soups, tacos, sandwiches, casseroles, and many more. This way, you will not have to buy additional meat to make a new meal, which significantly reduces waste and saves you money.
3. Healthy Meal Option
Turkey is a lean protein source that is low in calories, making it an excellent ingredient for healthy meals. Using leftover turkey for cooking healthy dishes is an efficient way to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, cooking with turkey is healthy compared to other types of meat since it is low in fat and high in protein. Combining turkey with other healthy ingredients such as vegetables and whole grains provides a punch of fiber, nutrients, and vitamins, which is vital for a healthy diet.
Overall, using leftover turkey to make healthy meals is easy, affordable, and nutritious. The next time you find yourself with leftover turkey, get creative and start using it in various ways, such as salads, soups, casseroles, and more, to make delicious and healthy meals.
Healthy Leftover Turkey Salad Recipes
If you have leftover turkey from a holiday meal, don’t let it go to waste! There are plenty of ways to use it up in delicious and healthy salads. Here are some recipes to try:
Turkey Cranberry Salad
This salad is packed with flavor and nutrients. To make it, you will need:
- 3 cups shredded leftover turkey
- 3 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare the salad, start by toasting the pecans in a dry pan over medium heat until they are fragrant. Then, combine the turkey, mixed greens, cranberries, pecans, and feta cheese in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Turkey Avocado Salad
This salad is filling, flavorful, and packed with healthy fats. You will need:
- 3 cups leftover shredded turkey
- 3 cups mixed greens
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the salad, start by arranging the mixed greens on a large platter. Then, top with the shredded turkey, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve immediately.
Thai Turkey Salad
This salad has a fun and flavorful twist on traditional turkey salad. To make this recipe, you will need:
- 3 cups leftover shredded turkey
- 3 cups mixed greens
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup matchstick carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Start by combining the mixed greens, turkey, red bell pepper, matchstick carrots, chopped peanuts, and cilantro in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Leftover Turkey Soup Recipes
After Thanksgiving, turkey leftovers can pile up in the fridge. Add some variety and keep meals healthy with these soup recipes that utilize leftover turkey as a main ingredient.
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a great way to use up leftover turkey and wild rice. It is a quick and easy one-pot meal that comes together in under an hour.
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 4 cups of turkey broth
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup of cooked wild rice
- 2 cups of cooked, chopped turkey meat
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Add the flour and cook for an additional minute. Slowly whisk in the turkey broth and water. Add the cooked rice, turkey, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30 minutes.
Lemon Turkey soup with Chickpeas
This healthy and flavorful lemon turkey soup with chickpeas is quick and easy to make. The lemon adds a bright and fresh flavor, and the chickpeas make it a filling and satisfying meal.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups of turkey broth
- 2 cups of cooked, chopped turkey meat
- 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Add the turkey broth, turkey meat, chickpeas, and peas. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spicy Turkey Tortilla Soup
This spicy turkey tortilla soup is a great way to use up leftover turkey and add some Tex-Mex flavors to your meal. It is filling, flavorful, and perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 6 cups of turkey broth
- 2 cups of chopped turkey meat
- 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup of frozen corn
- Corn tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro for garnish
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeno and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Add the chili powder and cumin and cook for an additional minute. Add the turkey broth, turkey meat, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and corn. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 20-30 minutes. Serve with corn tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro.
Healthy Leftover Turkey Sandwich Ideas
One of the challenges of cooking for Thanksgiving is managing all of the leftovers. Turkey sandwiches are a classic way to use up leftover turkey, but they can easily become unhealthy if they’re loaded with mayonnaise or served on processed white bread. Here are some healthy sandwich ideas that make use of leftover turkey, with suggestions for different breads, toppings, and condiments.
1. Whole Grain Bread with Avocado Mayo
Whole grain bread is a healthier option than white bread because it contains more fiber and nutrients. Avocado mayo is a healthier alternative to regular mayonnaise because it’s made with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats instead of saturated fats. To make avocado mayo, mash one ripe avocado and mix it with a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt, a tablespoon of lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Spread the avocado mayo on toasted whole grain bread and top with sliced leftover turkey, lettuce, and tomato.
2. Pita Pocket with Tzatziki Sauce
Pita pockets are a convenient option for a sandwich because they’re easy to pack for lunch or a snack. Tzatziki sauce is a Greek yogurt-based sauce that adds flavor and creaminess to the sandwich. To make tzatziki sauce, mix together plain Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill. Stuff a pita pocket with sliced leftover turkey, shredded lettuce, and tzatziki sauce.
3. Wrap with Hummus and Veggies
Wraps are another convenient option for a sandwich because they’re easy to roll up and eat on-the-go. Hummus is a healthier sandwich spread than mayonnaise because it’s lower in calories and fat and higher in protein and fiber. To make a turkey wrap, spread hummus on a whole wheat wrap and top with sliced leftover turkey, shredded carrot, cucumber, and red onion, and a handful of baby spinach leaves. Roll up the wrap and slice it in half for a portable meal.
4. Open-Faced Sandwich with Cranberry Sauce
Open-faced sandwiches are a fun way to showcase the ingredients of a sandwich. Cranberry sauce is a classic Thanksgiving condiment that pairs well with leftover turkey. To make an open-faced turkey sandwich, toast a slice of whole grain bread and spread it with a layer of cream cheese. Top the cream cheese with sliced leftover turkey and a dollop of cranberry sauce. Garnish the sandwich with sliced almonds for extra crunch and nutrition.
5. Bagel with Cream Cheese and Spinach
Bagels are a filling and flavorful option for a sandwich. Cream cheese is a tasty sandwich spread that also provides protein and calcium. To make a turkey bagel sandwich, toast a whole grain bagel and spread it with plain cream cheese. Top the cream cheese with leftover turkey, sliced tomato, and a handful of baby spinach leaves. Sprinkle the sandwich with a pinch of black pepper for extra flavor.
Leftover Turkey Stir-Fry Recipes
Don’t let your leftover turkey go to waste! Try out these healthy and delicious stir-fry recipes that make use of all the nutrients the turkey still has.
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe is packed with veggies and protein, making it the perfect healthy meal for any night of the week.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and broccoli, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add the turkey, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet, and stir to combine.
- Drizzle the soy sauce over the stir-fry, and continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Enjoy hot!
Spicy Turkey Stir-Fry
If you love spicy food, this recipe is for you! This stir-fry is packed with flavor and heat, and is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cups snow peas
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and snow peas, and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add the turkey, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet, and continue to stir-fry for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Drizzle the Sriracha over the stir-fry, and toss to coat evenly.
- Enjoy hot!
Turkey and Squash Stir-Fry
This recipe is great if you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. The squash and turkey pair perfectly together, creating a healthy and filling meal.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, chopped
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butternut squash, bell pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper, and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add the turkey to the skillet, and continue to stir-fry for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Drizzle the honey over the stir-fry, and stir to coat evenly.
- Enjoy hot!
Turkey and Rice Stir-Fry
This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover rice you may have in your fridge. The turkey and rice pair well together, creating a healthy and filling meal.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper, and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add the turkey to the skillet, and continue to stir-fry for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, and stir to combine.
- Drizzle the soy sauce over the stir-fry, and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
- Enjoy hot!
Turkey and Cashew Stir-Fry
This recipe is a nutty and savory combination that is sure to please. The cashews and turkey pair well together, creating a healthy and flavorful meal.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup cashews
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper, and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add the turkey and cashews to the skillet, and continue to stir-fry for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Drizzle the soy sauce over the stir-fry, and toss to coat evenly.
- Enjoy hot!
How to Store your Leftover Turkey
After enjoying a delicious Thanksgiving feast, the last thing you want to do is waste the leftover turkey. You can store leftover turkey safely and use it in healthy recipes later on. Here are some tips and tricks for storing leftover turkey:
1. Separate the Meat from the Bones
Before storing your leftover turkey, remove all the meat from the bones. The bones can be used for making a nourishing turkey bone broth, and the meat can be used in various recipes. If you’re in a hurry, you can tear the meat apart with your hands, but if you have time, use a sharp knife to cut the meat into chunks or slices.
2. Store the Turkey in Airtight Containers
After you’ve separated the meat from the bones, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can use plastic containers or zip-lock bags. Be sure to label the containers with the date and contents so you can keep track of how long the turkey has been stored. Leftover turkey should be consumed within four days.
3. Freeze the Turkey
If you don’t plan on using the leftover turkey within four days, it’s best to freeze it. To freeze the turkey, store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. You can also wrap the turkey in aluminum foil or freezer wrap. Be sure to label the containers with the date and contents, and use the turkey within six months for the best quality.
4. Keep Turkey Parts Separate
If you’re storing the turkey meat and broth in separate containers, be sure to label each container carefully. This will help you avoid confusion later on and make it easier to use the turkey in various recipes.
5. Use the Bones for Broth
Don’t throw away the turkey bones! You can use the bones to make a nourishing turkey bone broth that can be used as a base for soups, stews, and other recipes. Simply place the bones in a large pot, cover with water, add some chopped vegetables and herbs, and simmer for several hours until the broth is rich and flavorful.
6. Try New Recipes
If you’re tired of the same old turkey sandwiches and casseroles, try some new recipes using leftover turkey. There are many healthy recipes that use turkey as the main ingredient, such as turkey chili, turkey soup, turkey tacos, and turkey stir-fry. You can find plenty of recipes online, or use your creativity to come up with your own recipes.
- Turkey Chili – Cook up some ground turkey, add in some beans, canned tomatoes, and spices for a warm, hearty meal.
- Turkey Soup – Make a simple vegetable or noodle soup and add in chunks of turkey for a protein boost.
- Turkey Tacos – Season your turkey meat with taco seasoning and serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings.
- Turkey Stir-Fry – Stir-fry your leftover turkey with vegetables, soy sauce, and other seasonings for a healthy, flavorful meal.
FAQs
If you have leftover turkey from a holiday meal, do not let it go to waste. Leftover turkey can be transformed into a delicious and healthy meal. Here are answers to frequently asked questions about using leftover turkey for healthy recipe making.
1. How long will leftover turkey last in the refrigerator?
Leftover turkey can last up to four days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. If you cannot consume the turkey within four days, it is best to freeze it.
2. Can I freeze leftover turkey?
Yes, leftover turkey can be frozen for up to six months. It is best to freeze the turkey in appropriately sized portions so that it is easy to thaw and use when you are ready to make a recipe.
3. What are some healthy ways to use leftover turkey?
There are many healthy ways to use leftover turkey. You can make turkey soup or turkey chili, add turkey to a salad, or make a turkey and vegetable stir-fry. Turkey can also be used as a substitute for chicken in many recipes.
4. Can leftover turkey be used in a sandwich?
Yes, leftover turkey is a great addition to a sandwich. Try using whole grain bread, avocado, and plenty of vegetables to make a healthy and satisfying turkey sandwich.
5. Is leftover turkey high in protein?
Yes, leftover turkey is a great source of protein. A three-ounce serving of cooked turkey contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
6. Can leftover turkey be used in a casserole?
Yes, leftover turkey is a great addition to a casserole. Try using it in a healthy turkey and vegetable casserole for a delicious and nutritious meal.
7. What is a low-carb recipe that uses leftover turkey?
A great low-carb recipe that uses leftover turkey is turkey and vegetable stir-fry. To make this recipe, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, and sauté until tender. Add chopped leftover turkey and stir until heated through. Serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Delicious and Healthy Meals from Leftover Turkey
Thank you for taking the time to read this article on healthy recipes for leftover turkey. We hope that we have given you some inspiration to transform your leftover turkey into tasty and nutritious meals. Remember that eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and utilizing leftovers can save time and money while reducing food waste. Be sure to visit us again for more recipes and tips on living a healthy lifestyle.