Curried Turkey and Quinoa Salad Recipe |
Healthy & Flavorful Meal Prep Idea
Discover how to make a delicious and healthy Curried Turkey and Quinoa Salad
packed with protein, bold flavors, and perfect for meal prep or using leftovers.

Curried Turkey and Quinoa Salad: A
Flavorful Twist on Healthy Eating
When it comes to blending nutrition with bold flavor, few dishes strike a better
balance than curried turkey and quinoa salad. This dish isn’t just healthy; it’s a
delightful fusion of spices, lean protein, and ancient grains. Whether you're
looking for a quick lunch, a meal-prep staple, or a new take on leftovers,
curried turkey and quinoa salad offers a satisfying, wholesome experience.

Here’s a clear and concise list of ingredients for Curried Turkey and Quinoa
Salad:
For the Salad:
 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
 1½ cups cooked turkey (shredded or cubed)
 ½ cup red bell pepper (diced)
 ½ cup carrot (grated or julienned)
 ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
 ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
 ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries
 ¼ cup almonds or cashews (chopped, optional)
For the Dressing:
 3 tablespoons olive oil
 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt (for dairy-free)
 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
 1½ teaspoons curry powder
 Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Curried Turkey and Quinoa Salad
Step 1: Cook the quinoa
Rinse ½ cup of uncooked quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine it
with 1 cup of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat,
cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Let it sit
covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and allow it to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the turkey
Use 1½ cups of cooked turkey, either shredded or cubed. You can use leftover
roast turkey or cook turkey breast specifically for this salad. Let it cool if it’s
freshly cooked.
Step 3: Chop the vegetables and extras
Dice ½ cup of red bell pepper, grate ½ cup of carrot, finely chop ¼ cup of red
onion, and chop ¼ cup of fresh cilantro. Measure out ¼ cup of raisins or dried
cranberries and ¼ cup of chopped almonds or cashews if using.
Step 4: Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of
Greek or coconut yogurt, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of honey or
maple syrup, 1½ teaspoons of curry powder, and a pinch of salt and black
pepper. Mix until creamy and well blended.
Step 5: Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, turkey, chopped vegetables, dried
fruit, and nuts. Pour the dressing over the top.
Step 6: Toss to combine
Gently toss everything together until the curried turkey and quinoa salad is
evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 7: Let the flavors meld
Allow the salad to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This gives the curry
flavor time to soak into the ingredients.
Step 8: Serve and enjoy
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be eaten on its own, over a
bed of greens, or stuffed in wraps or pita pockets.

Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the possibilities for curried turkey and
quinoa salad are endless. You could swap the turkey for grilled chicken or even
chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Try using mango instead of raisins for a
tropical twist, or add a spoonful of chutney for extra zest.
Spice lovers can increase the curry powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper. For
a Mediterranean spin, try incorporating olives and sun-dried tomatoes with a
tahini-based curry dressing.

Tips for the Best Curried Turkey and Quinoa Salad
Use cooled quinoa
Let the quinoa cool before mixing it with the other ingredients. Warm quinoa
can make the salad soggy and dull the freshness of the veggies.
Leftover turkey works great
This salad is perfect for using up leftover turkey from the holidays or a weekend
roast. Just make sure it’s not overly seasoned so it blends well with the curry
flavors.
Adjust the curry to your taste
If you're new to curry, start with 1 teaspoon and build up from there. You can
add a pinch of cayenne for heat or extra turmeric for color and earthiness.
Make it dairy-free
Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt if you're avoiding dairy. It also adds
a subtle tropical touch that pairs well with curry.
Add extra crunch
Chopped almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds add great texture. Toast them
lightly beforehand to enhance their flavor.
Try a fruit twist
Swap raisins for chopped mango, apple, or pineapple chunks for a sweet
contrast to the curry spice.
Let it rest
After tossing the salad, let it sit for at least 10–15 minutes. This gives the
flavors time to meld and makes every bite more delicious.
Meal prep friendly
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually
deepen over time, making it a perfect make-ahead lunch or dinner.
Serve it your way
Enjoy it on its own, over greens, in lettuce cups, or stuffed into pita or wraps for
a quick and healthy meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, cooked chicken is a great substitute if you don’t have turkey on hand. It works just as
well with the curry flavors and quinoa.
2. Is curried turkey and quinoa salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely. This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a great option for
meal prepping lunches or dinners.
3. Can I serve this salad warm?
Yes, while it's often served chilled or at room temperature, you can lightly warm the turkey
and quinoa before tossing with the dressing for a cozy version.
4. What kind of quinoa should I use?
You can use white, red, or tri-color quinoa. All types work well, though red and tri-color
quinoa hold their shape better and offer a nuttier flavor.
5. How spicy is curried turkey and quinoa salad?
It’s mildly spiced, not hot. You can adjust the heat by adding more curry powder, a pinch of
cayenne, or even chopped chili if you like it spicier.
6. Can I make it vegan or vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the turkey with chickpeas or tofu and use coconut yogurt for a plant-
based version.
7. Can I freeze curried turkey and quinoa salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables and yogurt dressing can become watery
when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge within a few days.
8. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as all added ingredients (like yogurt or spices)
are certified gluten-free.

BY: Sumaiya Maryam