Escape to the vibrant shores of the Mediterranean with this flavorful and refreshing Turkish pasta salad. This delectable dish combines the wholesome goodness of lean ground turkey with a symphony of colorful bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic herbs, all tossed in a tangy dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Alongside the main recipe, discover delectable variations, including a vegetarian option bursting with roasted vegetables, a creamy avocado-yogurt dressing for a luscious twist, and a pesto-infused dressing for a burst of basil and pine nut flavor. Each variation offers a unique culinary journey, catering to diverse preferences and dietary choices. Embark on this Mediterranean adventure and savor the vibrant flavors that will transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched paradise.
Here are our top 5 tried and tested recipes!
MEDITERRANEAN PASTA SALAD
Juicy tomatoes and cucumbers along with salty olives, red onion, tender pasta, and spinach are tossed together with creamy feta cheese in a homemade dressing for a crave-able salad that's so easy to make!
Provided by Donya Mullins
Categories Main Course Pasta Salad
Time 25m
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- To a pot of salted boiling water, add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Add pasta, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, spinach, and olives to a large bowl. Drizzle on about 1/2 cup of Greek Salad Dressing and toss all ingredients. Add feta cheese and more dressing plus salt and pepper if desired and toss until just combined. Serve immediately and enjoy!
TURKEY PASTA SALAD
This is a dish I almost always make when I have leftover turkey. It's inexpensive, delicious and easy to prepare. Plus, my family loves it!
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 20m
Yield 6-8 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. Place in a 2-1/2-qt. salad bowl. Add turkey, celery, onion and green pepper; toss to combine. , Combine dressing mix, sour cream, Miracle Whip and garlic salt. Add to pasta mixture and mix well. Sprinkle with almonds and paprika. Garnish with pepper rings and tomato slices if desired.
Nutrition Facts :
MEDITERRANEAN PASTA SALAD
Provided by Food Network Kitchen
Categories side-dish
Time 31m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente; drain, then rinse with cold water to cool.
- Meanwhile, make the vinaigrette: Whisk the vinegar, mustard, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in enough of the oil to make a smooth dressing; season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the sun-dried tomatoes, basil, onion, pepperoncini, olives and oregano in a bowl. Add the cooked pasta, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Add the vinaigrette and both cheeses and toss. Chill until ready to serve.
MEDITERRANEAN TORTELLINI SALAD
One of my childhood friends moved to Italy 20 years ago. During a recent visit to see her, I enjoyed a scrumptious salad made with tortellini and fresh vegetables. I fell in love with the dish and have been trying to recreate ever since. How'd I do? -Kelly Mapes, Fort Collins, Colorado
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 30m
Yield 6 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Cook tortellini according to package directions. , Meanwhile, in a large skillet coated with cooking spray, cook and stir sausage over medium heat 6-7 minutes or until lightly browned. Transfer to a large bowl. , Drain tortellini; add to sausage. Stir in pesto. Add remaining ingredients; toss to combine. Serve warm or refrigerate until chilled.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 334 calories, Fat 17g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 45mg cholesterol, Sodium 981mg sodium, Carbohydrate 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 19g protein.
TURKEY-MELON PASTA SALAD
Bow tie pasta, turkey and watermelon combine in this breezy summer salad from R. Jean Rand of Edina, Minnesota. It has a sweet-tart taste would pair well with tall glasses of lemonade or iced tea for an outdoor patio lunch.
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 25m
Yield 4 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the turkey, watermelon, celery and onion; set aside. , In a small bowl, whisk the yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice and sugar until smooth. Drain pasta and rinse in cold water; stir into turkey mixture. Drizzle with the yogurt mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving.
Nutrition Facts : Fat 4 g fat (1 g saturated fat), Cholesterol 48 mg cholesterol, Sodium 113 mg sodium, Carbohydrate 23 g carbohydrate, Fiber 1 g fiber, Protein 20 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
Tips:
- Prep Ahead: To streamline your cooking process, pre-cook the ground turkey and pasta the day before, then store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the salad.
- Choose Colorful Veggies: For an visually appealing salad, select a variety of colorful vegetables such as red bell pepper, yellow or orange bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor of your salad with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano. Their aromatic oils will add a delightful touch.
- Make Your Dressing: Instead of using store-bought dressing, whisk together simple ingredients to create a homemade dressing. This allows you to customize the flavors and adjust the dressing's consistency.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the salad more refreshing.
Conclusion:
Mediterranean Turkey Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines the vibrant flavors and textures of the Mediterranean region. With its tender turkey, flavorful vegetables, and zesty dressing, this salad is a perfect meal for warm-weather gatherings. By following these tips, you can elevate the taste and ensure a successful Mediterranean Turkey Pasta Salad experience. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish with your loved ones!
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