Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad

Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad Recipe with Spiral Noodles and Fresh Vegetables

| Servings: 4

Introduction

This Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of tender turkey, crunchy vegetables, sweet kiwifruit, and tangy dressing creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic pasta salad, incorporating the unique flavors of kiwifruit and turkey. It is a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein choices.

Ingredients

0.5 cup wine vinegar
2.5 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp dijon mustard
2 tsp basil
1 large clove of garlic, minced
1 package (8 oz / 227 g) spiral noodles
2 cups broccoli flowerets
2 cups sliced crookneck squash
3 kiwifruits
1 lb (454 g) cooked turkey breast, slivered
1 cup red pepper strips
0.5 cup sliced green onions
0.33 cup grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Combine vinegar, oil, mustard, basil, and garlic; mix well.
Cook noodles according to package instructions. Add broccoli and squash for the last 30 seconds of cooking the noodles, then drain.
Pour dressing over noodles and allow to cool.
Peel and slice kiwifruit.
Toss turkey, red pepper, green onions, and kiwifruit with pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Variations

You can swap out the turkey for chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
Add in your favorite herbs or spices to the dressing for extra flavor.
Try using different types of pasta such as penne or bowtie noodles for a fun twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy in the salad.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers.

- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the turkey and add chickpeas or tofu for protein.

Serving Suggestions

This Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish for lunch or dinner. It pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy in the salad.

- Blanching the broccoli and squash in the pasta water helps to soften them slightly while retaining their crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have kiwifruit, you can use mango or pineapple for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.

- Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.

Make Ahead Tips

This Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to add the dressing right before serving to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of black pepper for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in a large bowl or on individual plates for a colorful and appetizing dish.

Pairing Recommendations

This Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of this Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for 1-2 minutes or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad contains approximately 350 calories, making it a light and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

This Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. The noodles, vegetables, and kiwifruit all contribute to the carbohydrate content of this dish.

Fats

The olive oil in the dressing provides healthy fats that are essential for brain function and overall health. The Parmesan cheese also adds a small amount of fat to the dish.

Proteins

The turkey in this recipe is a lean source of protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair. The Parmesan cheese also contributes some protein to the dish.

Vitamins and minerals

This Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and kiwifruit. Broccoli is a good source of vitamin C and fiber, while kiwifruit is rich in vitamin C and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and gluten (noodles), so it may not be suitable for individuals with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Overall, this Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad is a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

This Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling satisfied. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly cooking exchange. Margaret was a fantastic cook and always had a new and exciting recipe to share with me. That day, she pulled out a faded piece of paper from her recipe box and handed it to me with a twinkle in her eye.

"Darling, you simply must try this Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad recipe. It's a real crowd-pleaser and perfect for a summer picnic or barbecue," Margaret said excitedly.

I looked down at the recipe card and read through the ingredients and instructions. It was a unique combination of flavors that I had never thought to put together before - tender turkey, sweet kiwifruit, crisp vegetables, all tossed in a tangy dressing and served over pasta. It sounded delicious, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.

Margaret and I spent the afternoon preparing the dish together, chopping vegetables, marinating the turkey, and boiling the pasta. As the salad came together, the vibrant colors and fresh aromas filled the kitchen, and I knew this recipe was going to be a hit. We sat down to enjoy our creation, and with the first bite, I was hooked. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a light and refreshing dish that was both satisfying and full of unexpected surprises.

From that day on, Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any chance I had to share a delicious meal with friends. Over the years, I have adapted and perfected the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own.

One of the most memorable times I made this dish was for my grandson's birthday party. He had requested a picnic in the park with all of his favorite foods, and I knew that Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad had to be on the menu. As I prepared the salad in my kitchen, I couldn't help but smile as I thought about all the wonderful memories and experiences this recipe had brought to my life.

As the party unfolded in the park, the children played games, the adults chatted and laughed, and the delicious aroma of the Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad wafted through the air. When it was time to eat, everyone gathered around the picnic table, and I proudly served up generous portions of the salad. The looks of delight and satisfaction on everyone's faces as they took their first bites warmed my heart, and I knew that this recipe would continue to be a beloved favorite for years to come.

In the years that followed, I shared the recipe for Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad with many friends and family members. Each time I made it, I thought back to that sunny afternoon in Margaret's kitchen and the joy and inspiration that simple recipe had brought into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow through the experience of trying new recipes and creating delicious meals for the ones I love.

As I sit here reminiscing about my culinary adventures and the joy that cooking has brought me over the years, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful people and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. I may have learned the recipe for Turkey and Kiwifruit Pasta Salad from a friend, but it is the love and creativity that I put into each dish that truly makes it my own. And for that, I am forever thankful.