Do you think Turkey Thanksgiving Leftover is an extension of the holiday or a headache? Personally, when I look at a mountain of turkey leftovers I always think what am I going to do with it now.
And I don’t think I’m alone in thinking this way. Let’s all figure out together how to maximize the productive, yet creative use of turkey leftovers in a way that avoids repetitive dishes on our menu.
Whether we’re making breakfast, dinner, or just looking for a snack, these recipes will help turn Thanksgiving turkey leftovers into healthy and delicious meals.
I probably don’t need to talk about why the issue of Thanksgiving turkey leftovers deserves special attention. Well for one thing, it’s about reducing food waste. Agreed, this is important not only for the wallet, but also for the environment. Studies show that nearly 200 million pounds of turkey are thrown away every year after Thanksgiving (source: NRDC). Can you imagine that amount?
By using turkey leftovers productively and creatively, you’ll save yourself money and time while helping nature.
Breakfast recipes
1. Turkey and yams
Protein and complex carbohydrates – what could be better than such an energy boost for the morning. Slice a yam, mix it with turkey pieces, fry everything and add a pinch of paprika. It doesn’t hurt to have a fried egg on top for a twist.
Tip. It’s not a bad idea to add some greens, for example, some spinach, it goes well with the other ingredients in this dish.
2. Turkey burrito
Mix leftover turkey with scrambled eggs, black beans and a pinch of grated cheese. Wrap in a whole wheat tortilla, add a scoop of salsa.
It’s a great protein breakfast that’s easy to take with you.
3. Turkey and cranberry oatmeal
Yes, turkey in oatmeal sounds bold, but I think it’s worth a try. Mix turkey chunks, oatmeal, almond milk, cranberries and add some cinnamon. Leave it overnight, and in the morning you can taste a dish with an unusual flavor. Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed.
Light lunches for vigor
4. Turkey roll with Caesar salad
Show a little imagination and substitute chicken for turkey in your favorite roll. Add sliced turkey, romaine lettuce leaves, some yogurt Caesar dressing and a pinch of parmesan. There you have a crunchy, healthy and hearty lunch.
5. Turkey and Pomegranate Salad
Mix turkey chunks, arugula, pomegranate seeds, walnuts and soft goat cheese. Drizzle everything with balsamic dressing – finger-lickin’ good. By the way, it’s also delicious and healthy.
6. Avocado and turkey toast
It’s time to upgrade your avocado toast! Spread mashed avocado on whole wheat bread, put turkey slices on top and sprinkle with chili flakes. For me, this is just perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Recipes for dinner – a new take on turkey
7. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
The pie definitely doesn’t get any worse if you use turkey instead of beef in this classic dish. We make layers of turkey, peas, carrots and corn, and top with a layer of mashed sweet potatoes. Bake until golden.
8. Vegetable stew with turkey
Stir-fry turkey with vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers) and add a little soy sauce or teriyaki. Serve with brown rice or quinoa.
9. Turkey zucchini boats
Remove flesh from zucchini halves, stuff with a mixture of turkey and tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake. Low-carb, delicious and kids will love it.
10. Turkey taco bowls
Assemble a bowl of the following layers: turkey, brown rice, black beans, lettuce leaves, salsa, and a spoonful of Greek yogurt. A little lime juice for spice, that’s it! Done.
Snacks and appetizers
11. Turkey and cranberry rolls
Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on a whole wheat tortilla, sprinkle with turkey and dried cranberries, roll up and slice into small pieces.
12. Vegetable muffins with turkey
Try mixing turkey, chopped veggies, eggs and some cheese, then pour it all into muffin molds and bake.This is a great recipe for a snack or cooking ahead of time.
13. Turkey Leaf Rolls
Use large lettuce leaves as a wrap. Fill them with turkey, grated carrots and a spoonful of peanut sauce. The end result is a light low-carb snack.
Soups and stews
14. Turkey and Quinoa Soup
Mix turkey, cooked quinoa, spinach and add chicken broth. Lemon juice for freshness will come in handy here.
15. Classic turkey chili
Take turkey as a base and add beans, diced tomatoes, onions and your favorite spices. Perfect for dinner, don’t you think?
16. Turkey Pho
Prepare a rich broth from turkey bones, add chunks of meat, rice noodles and fresh herbs like cilantro and basil. Not a bad version of a popular dish.
Original ideas for turkey leftovers
17. Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Peel bell peppers, stuff them with a mixture of turkey, quinoa and tomato sauce. Bake until soft.
18. Turkey pizza
Substitute pepperoni for turkey chunks. Add mushrooms, spinach and some mozzarella. Easy and delicious!
19. Vegetable frittata with turkey
Mix eggs, turkey, chopped veggies and a little milk. Bake in a cast iron skillet. Great for brunch or a light dinner.
20. Pasta and turkey casserole
Mix turkey with whole grain pasta, tomato sauce and cheese. Bake until golden. You’ll see, it will turn out to be a dish that everyone will appreciate.
Extend the holiday
I think the nice thing about these recipes is their simplicity and versatility. So before you forget about the Turkey Thanksgiving Leftover in the refrigerator, try to put into practice one of the above recipes. You and your loved ones will appreciate the result, I promise.
Among other things, we are extending ourselves with everyone’s favorite holiday!
What are your favorite Thanksgiving turkey leftovers recipes? Share in the comments below.
I’ll be interested in all of them.
These items will always help you in preparing various dishes (Amazon)
Cast-Iron Skillet for the perfect frittata or turkey hash.
Baking Dish for shepherd’s pie and pasta.
Reusable Food Storage Containers to keep food and leftovers fresh.
