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–+ servings

Turkey Basil Pasta Salad

This Turkey Basil Pasta Salad is an easy recipe, ready in about 20 minutes, using sliced turkey cold cuts for quick protein. It features cucumber, tomato, bell peppers, and a flavorful balsamic vinaigrette.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta & Produce

  • 1 pound Pasta (Fusilli or preferred small shape)
  • 0.5 Large cucumber Peeled and diced small
  • 1 Roma tomatoes Diced small
  • 1 Medium/large bell pepper Seeded and diced small (orange preferred)
  • 14 ounce can Heart of palm Drained and diced small
  • 7 ounces Sliced turkey breast Cold cuts
  • 3.8 ounce can Black olives Drained (omit if desired)
  • 8 Fresh basil leaves Sliced in ribbons or chiffonade (to taste)

Dressing & Seasoning

  • 3 tablespoons Lemon juice From half a lemon (or to taste)
  • 0.75 cup Balsamic vinaigrette Start with this amount, may need up to 1 cup
  • 2 teaspoons Salt To taste
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper To taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon Dried chile flakes Optional, to taste
  • Feta cheese Optional, crumbled (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Boil water and cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta well and rinse it with cold water.
  • While the pasta cooks, chop the cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, heart of palm, and slice the turkey and basil.
  • In a very large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, heart of palm, sliced turkey, drained black olives, fresh basil, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
  • Add the cooled, drained pasta to the bowl. Drizzle with 0.75 cup of balsamic vinaigrette. Toss everything together. Add more vinaigrette if needed to ensure the pasta is well coated.
  • Add the salt, pepper, and optional chile flakes. Stir very well, taste, and adjust seasonings as necessary. If using feta, add it now or just before serving.
  • Serve immediately, or cover and chill for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

This pasta salad is great for picnics or meal prepping. If chilling for more than a few hours, you may need to add a small drizzle of extra vinaigrette or olive oil before serving, as the pasta can absorb the dressing.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
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