This dish is not only simple to make, but it is also versatile hence perfect to serve as a quick lunch, side dish for dinner or ideal for bringing to a potluck. The addition of turkey makes this pasta salad more filling and satisfying, while also providing some protein which will keep you fuller for longer.
Ingredients
To make this delicious pasta salad with turkey, you’ll need:
– 2 cups of uncooked pasta (whatever type of pasta you prefer)
– 1 cup of cooked turkey (you can use roast turkey, leftover turkey or a store-bought turkey breast)
– ½ cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup of cucumbers, chopped
– 1/3 cup of red onion, chopped
– ½ cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of white vinegar
– 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente.
2. Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Drizzle a bit of olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion.
4. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked turkey to the pasta bowl and pour the dressing over the pasta mixture; toss until everything is coated in the dressing.
6. Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Before serving, give the pasta salad with turkey a quick toss and add more salt and pepper if needed.
Tips and Substitutions
– You can use any type of cooked turkey for this pasta salad, including turkey breast, ground turkey, or even turkey deli meat.
– If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use regular mustard instead.
– Feel free to add more veggies, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini, to the pasta salad for more color and nutrition.
– To make this pasta salad healthier, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, or even a combination of both.
– If you prefer your pasta salad with some crunch, add roasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the dish.
Final Thoughts
Pasta salad with turkey is a delicious and easy meal that can be served in a variety of settings. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, bringing a dish to share at a potluck or seeking a quick and easy lunch, this pasta salad is versatile and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.