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Smoked-Turkey, Plum, and Fennel Salad

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This smoked turkey, plum and fennel salad is a sophisticated dairy-free dish that balances rich, savoury notes with bright, seasonal fruit. The deep flavour of the smoked turkey provides a wonderful contrast to the tart sweetness of the ripe plums, while the radicchio adds a subtle bitterness and vibrant colour to the plate. It is an excellent choice for a light lunch or a refined starter that feels special without being heavy.

Crisp fennel adds a refreshing crunch to the base, and toasted pecans provide a buttery texture that complements the balsamic dressing. Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. Serve it at room temperature to allow the complex flavours of the wood-smoked meat and the aromatic fennel to shine through fully.

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Ingredients for Smoked-Turkey, Plum, and Fennel Salad

  • 80ml balsamic vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 (1-pound) smoked turkey drumstick

  • 1 large fennel bulb, stalks discarded

  • 1/2 head radicchio

  • 230g firm-ripe black or red plums (2 to 3), thinly sliced

  • 90g pecans, toasted and cooled

  • An adjustable-blade slicer

How to make Smoked-Turkey, Plum, and Fennel Salad

Whisk together vinegar, brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoons each of salt and pepper in a large bowl until sugar has dissolved, then add oil in a slow stream, whisking until emulsified.

Cut turkey meat from bone, discarding skin and tendons, then thinly slice meat. Add to dressing.

Quarter fennel bulb lengthwise, then thinly slice using slicer. Slice radicchio in same manner. Add fennel and radicchio to dressing with plums and pecans and toss well. Season with pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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