Strawberry Turkey Sandwich

Turkey and cheese sandwiches are a dependable go-to, but they can start to feel a little routine in the everyday lunch rotation. This strawberry turkey sandwich, shared by Taste of Home reader Edward Meyer of Arnold, Missouri, is a simple upgrade on the sack-lunch staple—almost like your usual turkey sandwich decided to dress up for the day.

Creamy pecan-studded cream cheese sets the stage for layers of savory turkey, crisp lettuce, Swiss cheese and juicy sliced strawberries, all of which create a sweet-and-savory combo that’s pretty irresistible. This simple yet elevated sandwich is perfect for packed lunches or summer picnics and tea party–themed celebrations.

Strawberry Turkey Sandwich Ingredients

• Cream cheese: The recipe calls for spreadable cream cheese, which can mean either whipped cream cheese or a regular block of softened cream cheese. Both work well, so use whatever you have. Just don’t try to spread cold cream cheese straight from the fridge, or you’ll end up with shredded bread.
• Pecans: Finely chopped pecans add crunch and a buttery, nutty flavor that makes this turkey sandwich feel more interesting than your average lunch. Feel free to swap in sliced almonds or chopped walnuts for a slightly different flavor.
• Whole wheat bread: Sliced whole wheat adds nuttiness (plus fiber), but oatmeal bread or a soft, seeded bread are also good here. A crusty artisan loaf can overpower the softer fillings, but you can build these sandwiches on lightly toasted sourdough if that’s your go-to bread.
• Lettuce: Boston lettuce is especially nice in this sandwich because it’s tender and sweet, and it gives the sandwiches a pop of bright green. Romaine also works if you want more crispness.
• Swiss cheese: Swiss adds a creamy, nutty flavor that plays well with the sweet strawberries and savory turkey. If Swiss isn’t your favorite, try provolone, Havarti or mild cheddar.
• Deli turkey: Use your favorite deli turkey. Classic oven-roasted turkey would keep things simple, while smoked or honey-roasted turkey would deliver more flavor without any extra work.
• Strawberries: Be sure to use the ripest, most fragrant berries you can find for the most pronounced flavor. Wash the strawberries well, then hull and slice them. If they seem especially juicy, give them a pat with a paper towel to keep the sandwich from getting soggy.

Directions

Step 1: Make the cream cheese spread

In a small bowl, stir together the cream cheese and chopped pecans until they’re well combined.

Editor’s Tip: Don’t forget to soften the cream cheese first. The pecans will incorporate more easily, and it’ll be easier to break up any lumps in the cream cheese.

Step 2: Build the sandwich

Spread the cream cheese mixture over two slices of bread.

Layer the lettuce, cheese, turkey and sliced strawberries, then close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices.

Editor’s Tip: Pat the strawberries dry before adding them to the sandwich so extra moisture doesn’t make the bread soggy.

Step 3: Cut the sandwiches

If desired, cut the sandwiches in half and serve them immediately.

Editor’s Tip: For a diner-style lunch, cut the sandwiches diagonally and secure each half with a toothpick.

Strawberry Turkey Sandwich Variations

• Swap spreads: Trade the cream cheese for whipped goat cheese for extra tang, or mascarpone for a softer, more neutral creamy base. Strawberry cream cheese is also a fun option if you want to double down on the berry flavor.
• Try a different cheese: Swiss is classic with turkey, but any mild, creamy cheese—like Havarti, provolone, Brie or white cheddar— pairs nicely with the sweet strawberries and savory turkey.
• Add herbs: Strawberries and basil are a total dream team. Tuck in a few fresh basil leaves for a bright, summery twist that elevates the sandwich.
• Toast the bread: Lightly toasting the bread adds crunch and helps it stand up to the juicy strawberries and creamy spread.

Can you store a strawberry turkey sandwich?

These strawberry turkey sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, since the cream cheese and strawberries can soften the bread and the lettuce can wilt over time. If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwiches tightly or place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day.

Can you make strawberry turkey sandwiches ahead of time?

Some components for strawberry turkey sandwiches can be made ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the full sandwich just before serving it. You can mix the chopped pecans into the cream cheese and slice the strawberries in advance, then store both in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to build the sandwiches.

If you want to fully assemble the sandwiches for a packed lunch, hold off on adding the strawberries and lettuce until right before serving them. That’ll keep the bread from getting soggy, and will help everything stay fresh, crisp and picnic-ready.

Strawberry Turkey Sandwich Tips

Can you use a different fruit instead of strawberries?

This sandwich is pretty flexible, so yes! Instead of strawberries, try thinly sliced apples, pears, raspberries or halved grapes. Just like in a fruity chicken salad, they all bring that sweet, fresh pop that contrasts so well with savory turkey. Stick to fruits that aren’t overly ripe or watery so your sandwich doesn’t turn soggy.

What kind of turkey works best for this sandwich?

Oven-roasted turkey would be my go-to for this sandwich recipe because its mild flavor lets the strawberries and cream cheese shine. If you want to mix things up, smoked turkey will add a little savory depth, while honey-roasted turkey leans sweeter. Honestly? This is one of those sandwiches where your favorite deli turkey is the right answer.

Should you toast the bread for strawberry turkey sandwiches?

You can absolutely go either way here; it really comes down to texture preference. Soft, untoasted bread gives you that classic, tender tea-sandwich feel, while lightly toasting the bread adds a little crunch and helps the sandwich hold up better against the juicy strawberries and creamy spread.

If you’re making these ahead of time or packing them for a picnic lunch, lightly toasting the bread is a smart move. It gives you a sturdier base, and helps keep the bread from getting soggy.

What can you serve with strawberry turkey sandwiches?

For a satisfying lunch, serve these strawberry turkey sandwiches with classic sides and picnic basket favorites. A handful of potato chips adds salty, crunchy contrast, or you can round things out with pasta salad, a crisp green salad or extra fresh fruit for something light and refreshing. If you want to make it a little cozier, pair the sandwiches with a bowl of soup, like tomato soup or minestrone.