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–+ servings
Bow-Tie Cranberry Pasta Salad

Delicious Bow-Tie Cranberry Pasta Salad for Summer Fun

This Bow-Tie Cranberry Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 32 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz Bow-Tie Pasta Any short pasta like penne or rotini can be substituted.
  • 2 cups Cooked Turkey Can be omitted for vegetarian version or replaced with chicken.
For the Crunch
  • 1 cup Diced Celery Substitute with diced bell peppers for a different flavor.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Alternative options include raisins or cherries.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Green Onions Can use chives or shallots as substitutes.
  • 1 cup Toasted Pecans Or use almonds; sunflower seeds for nut-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Poppy Seed Dressing Substitute with vinaigrette or homemade dressing if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Can replace with white vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar Optional for added sweetness in dressing.

Equipment

  • non-stick pan
  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Step 1: Toast the Pecans - Place a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the pecans and toast for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant.
  2. Step 2: Cook the Pasta - Bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bow-tie pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Step 3: Prepare the Dressing - Whisk together poppy seed dressing, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until smooth. Add granulated sugar to taste if preferred.
  4. Step 4: Combine the Ingredients - In a mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, cooked turkey, diced celery, dried cranberries, sliced green onions, and toasted pecans. Toss gently.
  5. Step 5: Dress the Salad - Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  6. Step 6: Chill Before Serving - Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
  7. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy - After chilling, stir gently, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve cold.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For meal prep, prepare a day in advance and add nuts just before serving. The salad stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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