How to Make 12 Terrific Turkey Sandwiches

I’m back from Hawaii and there’s a story to be told about my trip home. But that’s for another day. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and we’re focused on leftovers for after the big feast. Here are 12 terrific turkey sandwiches to try.

First, some food safety advice from USDA: After your Thanksgiving dinner, cut up leftover turkey and refrigerate in shallow containers within two hours of cooking. Use leftovers within three or four days; freeze for longer storage.

Internationally-Inspired Turkey Sandwiches

• #1. Bánh mì–Shred some carrots and toss in a mixture of 1 tablespoon vinegar, 2 teaspoons, sugar, and a pinch of salt; set aside. Meanwhile, split baguette lengthwise and spread with mayonnaise. Fill with sliced turkey, English cucumber, jalapeño, the shredded carrots, and cilantro sprigs.
• #2. Cuban–split a hoagie or other sandwich roll lengthwise, spread with mayonnaise mixed with a little hot sauce. Fill with turkey, deli ham, dill pickles, and Swiss cheese. Brush outside of the roll with softened butter and grill in a panini press or on stovetop with a weight on top, such as another heavy skillet.
• #3. Mexican–In crisp taco shells, add shredded turkey, shredded iceberg lettuce, guacamole, salsa, and top with shredded jack or Cheddar cheese.
• #4. Mediterranean–Combine diced turkey with sliced Kalamata olives, and drained sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil. Moisten with a little yogurt or mayonnaise. Serve in split, warmed focaccia.
• #5. Curry–Combine diced turkey with sliced green onion, raisins, chopped apple, mango chutney, mayonnaise, and a little curry powder. Fill lettuce-lined pita bread halves.

Turn the turkey carcass into broth and make jook, a comforting rice porridge.

American Classic Turkey Sandwiches

• #6. BBQ–Shred turkey and heat in barbecue sauce; sandwich between toasted buns; serve with coleslaw.
• #7. Open-faced–the classic turkey sandwich. On good-quality white bread, lay turkey slices and top with reheated leftover gravy; serve cranberry sauce and stuffing on the side.
• #8 Club–On toasted white bread, spread mayonnaise. Layer turkey slices, crisp bacon strips, avocado slices, and romaine lettuce. Top with second slice of toast. Cut into quarters diagonally to form four triangles and thread on a bamboo skewer.
• #9. Grilled Cheese and Turkey–On rustic bread layer turkey, cranberry sauce, Cheddar cheese, and top with a second slice of bread. Grill in a panini press or on stovetop.
• #10. Hero–split a sub, hero, or hoagie roll lengthwise and layer with deli meats (salami, mortadella, and/or prosciutto), turkey, provolone, roasted red peppers, shredded iceberg lettuce, and a drizzle of Italian dressing.

Extra-Healthy Turkey Sandwiches

#11. Veggie Wrap–On flour tortilla, spread mayonnaise mixed with a little pressed garlic. Layer butter lettuce, sliced turkey, sliced avocado, and tomato wedges. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks. Cut in half diagonally.

#12. Low-fat–Combine turkey cubes with nonfat Greek yogurt seasoned with chopped fresh dill weed, pressed garlic, salt, and pepper. Spoon into lettuce-lined whole wheat pita bread halves, along with avocado and sprouts.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Miss T, Little N, and all our family wish you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving. Thank you for being a part of the “Call Me Grandma!” family.

With gratitude,
Sandy

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