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Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Tacos with Cranberry Slaw

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Tacos with Cranberry Slaw
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Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Tacos with Cranberry Slaw transform holiday feast leftovers into a vibrant and flavorful meal. Combining tender shredded turkey seasoned with cumin and smoked paprika with a zesty cranberry cabbage slaw, these tacos offer the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Quick to prepare and customizable, they are a delicious way to enjoy seasonal flavors long after Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

Scale

Turkey Filling

  • 2 cups shredded leftover turkey (juicy and slightly seasoned)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Cranberry Slaw

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup chopped fresh cranberries (or soaked dried cranberries)
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Taco Assembly

  • 8 soft corn or flour tortillas
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Extra lime wedges (optional)

Optional Garnishes & Variations

  • Diced jalapeños or hot sauce (for heat)
  • Roasted chickpeas or spiced tofu (vegetarian substitute)
  • Apple or orange segments (alternative slaw flavors)
  • Crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese
  • Lettuce cups (gluten-free alternative to tortillas)
  • Sliced avocado, queso fresco or cotija cheese (additional garnishes)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cranberry Slaw: In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, chopped fresh cranberries, and sliced green onions. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Toss the slaw ingredients with the dressing until evenly coated. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Warm and Season the Turkey: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add shredded turkey along with cumin, smoked paprika, a pinch of salt, and a splash of lime juice. Stir and cook until turkey is heated through and fragrant, reviving leftover turkey with flavorful spices.
  3. Warm the Tortillas: Warm tortillas in a dry pan or wrap in foil and heat in the oven until soft and pliable. Proper warming prevents the tortillas from cracking when folded.
  4. Assemble the Tacos: Place a portion of seasoned turkey in the center of each tortilla. Top with a generous spoonful of cranberry slaw. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, then garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Use moist turkey: Add a splash of broth or lime juice when reheating to keep turkey juicy.
  • Prep slaw ahead: Make cranberry slaw a day in advance for enhanced flavor.
  • Warm tortillas gently to avoid breaking and improve flexibility.
  • Adjust slaw sweetness or acidity to taste for perfect balance.
  • Add fresh herbs like cilantro just before serving for the best flavor and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thanksgiving leftovers, turkey tacos, cranberry slaw, leftover turkey recipe, holiday leftovers, festive tacos, gluten-free tacos

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/thanksgiving-leftover-turkey-tacos-with-cranberry-slaw/