December 28, 2023

Easy Leftover Turkey Recipes: Delicious Dishes to Enjoy

A beautifully arranged Thanksgiving dinner featuring turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a glass of wine

The holidays are all about spending time with family and friends, celebrating togetherness, and enjoying delicious food. But by December 28th, many of us can feel a bit turkey-ed out! If you’re staring at piles of leftover turkey and vegetables and wondering what to do with them, don’t worry! At River Cottage, we’re all about reducing waste and making the most of every bite.

We’ve got some fun and creative recipes that will transform your leftovers into mouthwatering dishes that taste just as good as the first time around. Let’s ensure your Christmas feast doesn’t end up in the bin!

Here are seven easy leftover turkey recipes and clever tips to make sure none of your festive goodies go to waste.

Satay Turkey

Transform your leftover turkey into a vibrant dish with satay sauce! Mix shredded turkey with a blend of peanut butter, soy sauce, and coconut milk. Serve it over rice or noodles for a quick meal that adds a new twist to your leftovers. This is an excellent way to use up salted peanuts, too!

Leftover Ribollita

Breathe new life into your roast vegetables with this hearty Italian soup. Simmer your leftover veggies in a rich broth, adding beans and some stale bread for texture. Leftover ribollita is the perfect comfort food for chilly winter nights.

Curried Bubble and Squeak

Put a spicy spin on the classic Boxing Day dish! Mix chopped leftover turkey with roasted vegetables and curry powder, then pan-fry until crispy. Serve with a dollop of yogurt for a deliciously warming meal. This is, in our opinion, the best way to make bubble and squeak with leftovers, and it’s sure to delight!

Beef with Mustardy Lentils and Herbs

Perfect for a light lunch or buffet spread, this dish features cooked lentils tossed with mustard and fresh herbs, paired with slices of leftover turkey. If you have horseradish on hand, feel free to swap it in for a zesty alternative!

Roast Root Hummus

Take those leftover roasted root vegetables and blend them into a creamy hummus dip. It’s a fantastic addition to any festive buffet or a snack to enjoy while watching a holiday movie. This recipe for leftover hummus will impress your guests and make use of what you have, perhaps for the upcoming New Year celebrations.

Coronation Turkey

Put a festive twist on the classic coronation chicken by using your leftover turkey (or a meat-free option). Mix turkey with curry powder, yogurt, and a hint of mango chutney for a refreshing and flavourful dish.

Turkey and Leek Pasties

These delightful pasties are perfect for using up leftover turkey breast. Swap the chicken in your favourite pasty recipe for shredded turkey and add leeks for an extra flavour boost. They make for a satisfying lunch or snack!

Bonus Tips for Using Up Leftovers

Embrace the challenge of using up your Christmas leftovers! With these easy leftover turkey recipes and creative ideas, you can enjoy delicious meals while minimising waste. Let the spirit of the festive season continue with every bite. Plus, while you’re in the cooking mood, check out our cooking courses and join us to learn something new. Happy cooking!

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