Turkey Layered Salad

Layered Salad Recipe with Turkey and Fresh Vegetables | USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 8

Introduction

Turkey Layered Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This salad is packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich turkey, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. It is a great option for those looking for a healthy and satisfying meal.

History

The Turkey Layered Salad has been a popular dish in American cuisine for many years. It is a variation of the traditional layered salad, which typically includes layers of lettuce, vegetables, and dressing. The addition of turkey adds a unique twist to this classic recipe, making it a hearty and flavorful option for any meal.

Ingredients

4 cups iceberg lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces
0.5 lb (227 g) turkey pastrami, cut into 0.75 inch cubes
2 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
2 cups cucumbers, unpeeled, seeds removed and cut into 0.5 inch cubes
0.5 lb (227 g) oven-roasted turkey breast, cut into 0.75 inch cubes
1 package (10 oz (283 g)) frozen peas, defrosted
0.75 lb (340 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
0.75 cup reduced-calorie mayonnaise
0.75 cup reduced-fat sour cream
0.33 cup skim milk
0.25 cup green onions, thinly sliced
3 tbsp dill pickle relish, drained
0.75 tsp dill weed
0.5 tsp dry mustard

How to prepare

In a 3 qt (2.84 liter) salad bowl, layer lettuce, turkey pastrami, broccoli, cucumber, turkey breast, peas, and tomatoes.
To prepare the dressing, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, onions, relish, dill, and mustard in a small bowl.
Spread the dressing evenly over the top of the salad, covering the edges of the salad bowl.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
To serve, do not mix the salad together; simply spoon the salad onto serving plates.

Variations

Substitute the turkey with chicken or ham for a different flavor profile.
Add avocado slices or olives for an extra burst of flavor.
Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter dressing option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cut all the ingredients into uniform sizes to ensure even distribution of flavors in each bite.

- Refrigerating the salad overnight allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more delicious dish.

- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables or protein options to make it your own.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a crusty bread or a side of fresh fruit.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the ingredients in a salad bowl allows for a beautiful presentation and ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. Be sure to evenly distribute the dressing over the top for a creamy and delicious finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables or protein options. You can also adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight to allow the flavors to meld together. Simply spoon the salad onto serving plates when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Turkey Layered Salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the beautiful layers of colorful vegetables and turkey. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water infused with fresh citrus slices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to mix the salad together before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Turkey Layered Salad contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

The Turkey Layered Salad is a low-carb option, with approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This salad is a moderate-fat dish, with around 10 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

With turkey pastrami and oven-roasted turkey breast as the main protein sources, this salad provides about 25 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables included. It is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream, milk) and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies before consuming this dish.

Summary

Overall, the Turkey Layered Salad is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a nutritious option for a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Turkey Layered Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich turkey, and a creamy dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and my dear friend Mary had invited me over for a picnic in her backyard. As we sat at the picnic table, enjoying the sunshine and the company of our friends, Mary brought out a beautiful dish that caught everyone's attention.

It was a Turkey Layered Salad, and it looked absolutely delicious. The layers of fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and tender turkey all stacked neatly in a glass bowl were a sight to behold. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste it for myself.

Mary saw my interest and smiled, knowing that I would appreciate the recipe. She told me that she had learned how to make the salad from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was thrilled at the prospect of adding this recipe to my own collection, and Mary graciously shared the ingredients and instructions with me.

The next day, I set out to make the Turkey Layered Salad for my own family. I gathered all the necessary ingredients – fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, savory turkey, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of vinegar. As I prepared each layer and carefully arranged them in a glass bowl, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

When I served the salad to my family that evening, they were impressed by its presentation and flavor. The combination of the crunchy vegetables, tender turkey, and tangy dressing was a true delight for the taste buds. My husband even declared it one of the best salads he had ever eaten, and my children eagerly asked for second helpings.

From that day on, the Turkey Layered Salad became a staple in our household. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and even for special occasions like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It never failed to impress and satisfy, and I always felt a sense of joy and nostalgia when I made it, thinking of Mary and her grandmother who had passed down the recipe to me.

As the years went by, I continued to make the Turkey Layered Salad, tweaking the ingredients and proportions to suit my family's preferences. Sometimes I would add a sprinkle of bacon bits for extra flavor, or a handful of shredded cheese for richness. Other times, I would experiment with different types of vegetables or try out a new dressing recipe.

Each time I made the salad, I would think of Mary and her grandmother, grateful for their generosity in sharing such a delicious and versatile recipe. It had become a part of my culinary repertoire, a dish that never failed to bring smiles to the faces of my loved ones and evoke fond memories of sunny picnics and warm summer days.

And so, as I sit here now, thinking back on the many times I have made the Turkey Layered Salad, I am filled with gratitude for the simple yet profound joy that cooking and sharing recipes can bring. It is a tradition that has been passed down through generations, connecting us to our past and to each other in a way that is truly special.

As I write this story, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the delicious meals and cherished memories that have been created around the table, thanks to a humble recipe for a Turkey Layered Salad. It is a reminder of the power of food to nourish not only our bodies but also our hearts and souls, bringing us together in love and gratitude for the simple pleasures of life. And for that, I am truly thankful.