Spring Greens with Grilled Turkey

Name: Spring Greens with Grilled Turkey
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups assorted spring greens (spinach, arugula, kale); 1 pound turkey breast, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I love creating vibrant, fresh dishes, and this Spring Greens with Grilled Turkey recipe captures the essence of spring on a plate. The combination of colorful greens and perfectly grilled turkey is not only healthy but also incredibly delicious. As the weather warms, I find myself gravitating towards lighter fare that bursts with flavor, and this dish is a prime example. It’s the perfect choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner, especially when you want something refreshing yet filling.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:42:27.860Z

One sunny afternoon, I decided to whip up something fresh and light, and that’s when this Spring Greens with Grilled Turkey came to life. The idea was simple: combine tender grilled turkey with an array of spring greens, adding a few nuts for crunch and a zesty dressing. Grilling the turkey not only enhances its flavor but also keeps it juicy.

While preparing this dish, I experimented with a lemon vinaigrette that perfectly complements the greens without overpowering them. The key is to allow the turkey to rest before slicing; it locks in the juices, ensuring every bite is succulent. It’s become a staple on my spring menu!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of fresh greens and grilled turkey for a nutritious meal
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for busy weeknights
Zesty dressing that elevates the flavors and brightens the dish

The Importance of Fresh Greens

In this recipe, the choice of spring greens like spinach, arugula, and kale is crucial to achieving a vibrant flavor and texture profile. Each green contributes distinctive qualities: spinach offers a tender, mild base, arugula adds a peppery kick, and kale provides a hearty chew. When selecting your greens, opt for organic and locally sourced items whenever possible as they tend to be fresher and more flavorful, enhancing your overall dish.

To properly wash and prepare the greens, immerse them in a bowl of cold water and swish them around to remove any dirt or impurities. After rinsing, dry them thoroughly using a salad spinner or by gently patting them with a clean kitchen towel. This step not only ensures cleanliness but also prevents excess water from diluting the dressing, allowing each ingredient to shine.

Crafting the Perfect Dressing

The dressing in this recipe features a simple yet zesty combination of lemon juice and olive oil. For optimal flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice; it adds brightness that enhances the greens and grilled turkey. Additionally, high-quality extra virgin olive oil can provide a rich, robust taste. If you enjoy a tangy kick, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.

When whisking the dressing, aim for a balanced ratio, typically three parts oil to one part acid. This ensures a creamy emulsion that coats the greens without overpowering them. If the dressing feels too tangy, you can adjust the acidity by adding a pinch of sugar or honey to round out the flavors, making it more harmonious with the salad.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it according to your preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, substitute the grilled turkey with roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu, both of which add protein and texture. You can also experiment with different textures by adding sliced avocados for creaminess or crunchy radishes for a hint of spice.

For serving, consider pairing this dish with a light, crusty bread or a grain like quinoa or farro to make it a more filling meal. If preparing ahead, store the salad components separately to keep the greens crisp. Dress only at the time of serving to maintain freshness. Leftover grilled turkey can be sliced and enjoyed in wraps or sandwiches the next day, ensuring none of your delicious ingredients go to waste.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients for a delightful meal!

Ingredients

2 cups assorted spring greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
1 pound turkey breast, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

With these ingredients ready, you'll craft a delicious meal.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish!

Grill the Turkey

Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Brush the turkey slices with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from the grill and let it rest.

Prepare the Greens

While the turkey is grilling, rinse and dry the spring greens. Place them in a large bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Salad

Slice the grilled turkey and add it to the bowl with greens. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Sprinkle with walnuts and feta cheese before serving.

Your meal is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the turkey in the olive oil and lemon juice mixture for an hour before grilling.

Grilling Tips

When grilling the turkey breast, preheating the grill to medium-high heat is essential for achieving those quintessential grill marks. Aim for a grill surface temperature of around 400°F to 450°F. This high heat will help sear the turkey, keeping it juicy and flavorful. Make sure to monitor the turkey closely as grilling times can vary based on thickness; you want an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Using a meat thermometer can help avoid overcooking the turkey, which can result in dryness. If you notice that the turkey is browning too quickly, move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking without burning. Letting the turkey rest for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and tender.

Storing and Reheating

If you plan on making this salad in advance, store the grilled turkey and greens separately in air-tight containers. The salad can be refrigerated for up to two days, while the turkey stays fresh for up to four days. In addition to maintaining the crispness of the greens, separating them allows you to enjoy the salad at its best texture and flavor.

When reheating the grilled turkey, do so gently in a microwave or skillet. Heat for just a minute or two until warmed through—but avoid cooking it again, as this can dry out the meat. Alternatively, serve the turkey cold on your salad for a refreshing flavor contrast, particularly if the weather is warm.

Ingredient Substitutions

Flexibility with ingredients is beneficial, especially if you're seeking variations or have dietary restrictions. Instead of walnuts, try using toasted pecans or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option while still adding crunch. Feta cheese can be replaced with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a similar tangy quality, making this dish accessible for vegan or lactose-free diets.

When it comes to the greens, consider incorporating seasonal greens like dandelion greens or mustard greens for a unique flavor and nutritional profile. If you're looking to further enhance the dish, adding fruits like sliced strawberries or apple slices can lend a natural sweetness, balancing the savory flavors of the turkey and dressing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, chicken breasts work wonderfully as a substitute in this recipe.

→ What if I don't have spring greens?

Feel free to use whatever fresh greens you have on hand, such as romaine or mixed salad greens.

→ How can I make this dish more filling?

You can add quinoa or couscous to the salad for added texture and substance.

→ Is the dressing customizable?

Absolutely! You can add mustard, honey, or herbs to the dressing for a different flavor profile.