Here's a guideline for a classic turkey sandwich, perfect for holiday leftovers. Does the mere thought of a turkey sandwich give you the doldrums? Don't let it get you! Try these ideas to spice up your filling; your sandwich stack and even the way you serve it! Re-create turkey salad and make it a favorite on your family's list!


CLASSIC TURKEY SALAD SANDWICH

1 1/2 cups turkey, chopped
2 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise or whipped dressing
1 stalk celery, chopped
1/4 cup onion, minced (try red onion)
1 1/2 tbsp. lemon pepper seasoning
1 dash paprika
12 slices thin white or rye bread

Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mix well and spread on sandwich bread. Makes 6 sandwiches.


JUST A TOUCH MORE

Try one of these add-ins to inject a twist into this classic sandwich:

Add 2 tablespoons sweet pickle or dill pickle relish
Add 1 tablespoon canned cactus, chopped fine
Exchange lemon pepper seasoning for a favorite Ms. Dash of your choice or
pickle your onion and then, add a chopped sprig of thyme, leaf of basil or tarragon to brighten the turkey's flavor
Add 2 tablespoons Parmesan grated cheese

Experiment by starting with your favorite flavors. To avoid having TOO MANY flavors, substitute your favorite and remove one of the already listed ingredients. Also, go with a theme. Try out Mediterranean, Italian, Asian or Mexican flavor themes.


STACK IT

Try adding a slice of sharp cheddar, pepper jack or thinly sliced gouda cheese
Crumble a bit of Feta and a few sliced black olives for a mediterranean flavor
Add a few thinly sliced red roasted bell peppers or
Add a thin layer of spicy hummus or
Add thinly sliced serrano, jalapeno or habanero peppers to your sandwich


SERVE IT UP

Try hollowing out a round loaf of rye or pumperknickel. Fill the "bowl" with your turkey salad. Then, cut up the bread you removed into bite-size chunks and arrange on a platter with carrots and celery sticks as dippers for your salad!

Serve individual turkey salad portions in your favorite holiday mugs with sesame or plain bread sticks.


What ideas do you have for your holiday turkey leftovers? A turkey loaf? A turkey, cheese and broccoli casserole? Let me know!