Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad with Sausage and Turkey Ham
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or easy lunches, this Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad is exactly what you need.
Packed with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, savory sausage, and turkey ham — all tossed in a luscious pesto-infused dressing — it’s a complete meal disguised as a side dish!
Let’s dive into this vibrant, satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite.
✨ Ingredients:
(Scale: 1x, 2x, 3x)
- 8 oz pasta (rotini or fusilli work great)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cooked beef sausage, sliced
- ½ cup turkey ham, diced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
🥄 Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Just Right
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente — usually about 8–10 minutes.
Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
This step also helps prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Pesto Base
While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Greek yogurt
- Pesto
This creamy blend is the flavorful heart of the salad, combining richness, tanginess, and that unforgettable basil-garlic essence from the pesto.
Step 3: Add the Veggies and Proteins
To the bowl with the dressing, add:
- Halved cherry tomatoes
- Diced cucumber
- Finely chopped red onion
- Sliced cooked beef sausage
- Diced turkey ham
These ingredients bring color, freshness, and a delightful range of textures to the salad.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Add the cooled pasta into the bowl with the other ingredients.
Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy pesto dressing.
Make sure every bite gets a good mix of sauce, vegetables, and protein!
Step 5: Season to Taste
Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, then give the salad one final toss.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
If you like, add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, citrusy twist.
💡 Tips for the Perfect Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad:
- Cook the pasta al dente: It will hold up better when mixed and won’t turn mushy.
- Use high-quality pesto: Fresh, homemade pesto or a good store-bought version can elevate the entire salad.
- Prep ahead: You can cook the pasta, chop the veggies, and prepare the dressing a few hours ahead of time. Assemble just before serving for best texture.
- Customization: Add olives, artichoke hearts, or roasted peppers for even more flavor!
🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Total Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 55 mg |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 29 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Vitamin C | 18% DV |
| Calcium | 12% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
(Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients and serving sizes.)
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad:
- It’s a full meal packed with protein, veggies, and flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep, summer gatherings, or quick weeknight dinners.
- A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize based on what you have in your fridge.
- Bursting with fresh, vibrant colors and satisfying textures.
Serve it chilled or at room temperature — either way, it’s bound to impress!