Mandarin Turkey Cabbage Salad with Roasted Carrots
Crisp shredded purple and green cabbage forms a crunchy, vibrant base that pairs effortlessly with savory roasted turkey and tender, caramelized carrots. Sweet mandarin orange segments add a bright burst of citrus that cuts through the rich dressing, creating a balanced salad that comes together in minutes once your cooked ingredients are ready.
Why this one works
- Uses prepared roasted turkey breast and carrots for a fast assembly.
- Dual colors of purple and green cabbage provide lasting crunch and visual contrast.
- Sweet mandarin oranges balance the savory, aromatic notes of sesame ginger dressing.
- Minimal cleanup requiring only a single large mixing bowl.
What you’ll need
- 2 cups (300g) shredded roasted turkey breast Shred the meat into bite-sized strands so it distributes evenly with the sliced cabbage.
- 4 cups (400g) thinly sliced purple and green cabbage A fine, thin shred keeps the texture light and helps catch the dressing.
- 2 cups (250g) diced roasted carrots Tender, cooled roasted carrots provide a mellow sweetness and soft contrast to the raw cabbage.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) mandarin orange segments Drain thoroughly if using canned fruit to avoid watering down the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) sesame ginger dressing A zesty dressing that coats the shredded vegetables without making them soggy.
TRY THIS NEXT: If these flavors sound good to you, Chicken, Pear & Roasted Carrots Chopped Salad is a natural one to save for next time.
What to have nearby
- Large mixing bowl
- Tongs or salad servers
- Chef's knife and cutting board
Step-by-step instructions
With the cooked components ready, this salad comes together in a few quick steps. The key is to mix the sturdier ingredients first before delicately incorporating the citrus.
- 1Step 1
Toss the shredded turkey, cabbage, and roasted carrots in a large mixing bowl.
- 2Step 2
Gently fold in the mandarin segments to avoid breaking them.
- 3Step 3
Drizzle the sesame ginger dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
- 4Step 4
Serve immediately on a chilled plate.
ALSO GOOD: If these flavors sound good to you, Pomegranate Roasted Carrots Chicken Crunch Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing is a natural one to save for next time.
A few things worth knowing
- Fold the mandarin segments in gently at the end so the delicate juice sacs remain intact.
- Chill your serving plates in the refrigerator for a few minutes before plating to keep the salad crisp and refreshing.
- Toss the dressing just before serving to maintain the maximum crunch of the raw cabbage.
Ways to make it your own
- Garnish with a light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds over the top for extra visual appeal.
- Present on a wide platter layered over whole cabbage leaves for family-style dining.
Serving suggestions
This hearty salad works well as a standalone lunch or paired alongside a light broth, steamed edamame, or warm brown rice to make a fuller dinner spread.
Storage & reheating
Keep any dressed leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because cabbage is sturdy, it holds its structure reasonably well, though the salad is at its crispiest when enjoyed right after dressing.
Nutrition notes
Nutrition is provided as a general estimate for the listed recipe. Brands, exact portions, and ingredient swaps can change the numbers.
Quick recipe answers
Can I use leftover roasted turkey or chicken?+
Yes, shredded leftover roasted poultry works seamlessly in place of freshly roasted turkey breast.
Why serve on a chilled plate?+
A cold plate prevents heat transfer to the crisp cabbage and citrus, keeping every bite cool and fresh.
Tossing crisp greens with tender roasted ingredients and bright citrus gives you a refreshing, textured salad that feels both light and satisfying.
Mandarin Turkey Cabbage Salad with Roasted Carrots
Crisp cabbage, tender shredded turkey, and sweet roasted carrots combine with juicy mandarin oranges and a savory sesame ginger dressing for an easy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (300g) shredded roasted turkey breast
- 4 cups (400g) thinly sliced purple and green cabbage
- 2 cups (250g) diced roasted carrots
- 1/2 cup (120ml) mandarin orange segments
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) sesame ginger dressing
Instructions
- Toss the shredded turkey, cabbage, and roasted carrots in a large mixing bowl.
- Gently fold in the mandarin segments to avoid breaking them.
- Drizzle the sesame ginger dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
- Serve immediately on a chilled plate.
Nutrition
You might also like these recipes
Chicken, Pear & Roasted Carrots Chopped Salad
A crisp chopped salad combining tender diced chicken, sweet roasted carrots, and juicy ripe pear over greens with balsamic vinaigrette.
Pomegranate Roasted Carrots Chicken Crunch Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
Tender roasted carrots, shredded chicken, and crisp pomegranate arils tossed in a zesty fresh cilantro lime dressing for an easy, balanced salad.
Peach Turkey Spinach Salad with Roasted Carrots
Tender roasted carrots, juicy fresh peaches, and grilled turkey breast come together over baby spinach with a light drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze.
Save the recipes you want to make next.
Browse more recipes or follow the Pinterest profile for the latest food ideas from this collection.