This vibrant Turkey-Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, combining tender spiral pasta with juicy turkey, crisp zucchini, and sweet corn. The dish is brought together by a unique dressing that mixes reduced-calorie creamy garlic salad dressing with tangy picante sauce, offering a zesty kick that cuts through the richness. Fresh cilantro and red bell pepper add brightness and color, making it visually appealing as well as delicious. It&# 226;ÂÂs an excellent choice for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Serve it chilled for the best flavor melding.
Turkey-Pasta Salad
Description
This vibrant Turkey-Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, combining tender spiral pasta with juicy turkey, crisp zucchini, and sweet corn. The dish is brought together by a unique dressing that mixes reduced-calorie creamy garlic salad dressing with tangy picante sauce, offering a zesty kick that cuts through the richness. Fresh cilantro and red bell pepper add brightness and color, making it visually appealing as well as delicious. It&# 226;ÂÂs an excellent choice for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Serve it chilled for the best flavor melding.Ingredients
Directions
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Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
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Cut the cooked turkey (or chicken) into bite-sized chunks.
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Dice the zucchini, red bell pepper, and tomato into 1/2-inch pieces.
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If using frozen corn, thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the picante sauce, creamy garlic salad dressing, and salt until well combined.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, turkey, zucchini, tomato, red bell pepper, corn, and chopped cilantro.
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Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 314.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.6g4%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 2.4mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 60.0g20%
- Dietary Fiber 4.3g18%
- Sugars 1.2g
- Protein 12.0g24%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a vegan variation, omit the turkey and use a plant-based protein or extra vegetables. Note that the original tag listed "Vegan" but included turkey; this recipe uses turkey as per the title and ingredient list.
You can substitute cilantro with fresh parsley if you prefer a different herbal note.
Serve with additional picante sauce on the side for those who like extra spice.
Ensure all vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces for even distribution in each bite.
