Description
A refreshing pasta salad combining crispy romaine, protein, tangy dressing, and halal bacon for a satisfying summer dish. Perfect for BBQs or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
8–12 oz pasta (rotini, bow ties, or shells)
2 cups diced chicken or 1 cup diced turkey and 1 cup halal bacon
1 cup chopped romaine
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup sliced green onions
2 cups cubed cheddar cheese
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp buttermilk (optional substitution for yogurt or buttermilk)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and chill 10 minutes
Cook chicken/turkey in a skillet until browned; set aside. Cook halal bacon until crisp, drain excess fat
Chop romaine, slice tomatoes, and finely chop green onions
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon, buttermilk (if using), salt, and pepper
Combine cooled pasta, chicken/turkey, bacon, tomatoes, green onions, and cheddar in a large bowl
Toss with dressing just before serving. Fold in romaine gently to maintain crispness
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving
Notes
Substitute halal bacon with turkey bacon if needed
Add diced avocado or cucumber for extra freshness
The pasta can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance
Letting the salad rest allows flavors to meld
Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter version
- Prep Time: 35
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: DINNER
- Method: Stovetop + Boiling
- Cuisine: American comfort food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg