Bow-Tie Cranberry Pasta Salad

This bow-tie cranberry pasta salad is a deliciously vibrant dish that’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or potlucks. The combination of tender pasta, juicy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and savory turkey makes it a comforting yet fresh option that can be on your table in under an hour.

I first made this after finding leftover turkey in the fridge and it quickly became a favorite for casual lunches and gatherings.

Ingredients

• Bow-tie pasta or similar short pasta like rotini: cooks evenly and holds dressing well. Choose good quality pasta for the best texture.
• Dried cranberries: bring sweet tartness that brightens every bite. Pick fresh, plump cranberries for maximum chewiness.
• Toasted chopped pecans: add a nutty crunch—it’s worth taking the time to toast them lightly in a pan for maximum flavor.
• Cooked turkey: lends protein and a savory note. Leftovers work perfectly here, just chop them evenly.
• Sliced green onions: provide a gentle sharpness that cuts through the richness of the dressing.
• Diced celery: gives a crisp freshness to the salad, opt for firm stalks.
• The dressing: combines apple cider vinegar for tang, mayonnaise for creaminess, and poppy seed dressing for a slightly sweet, luscious finish. Using a quality poppy seed dressing will elevate the flavor significantly.

Instructions

Build The Crunch:

Toast the chopped pecans or almonds in a dry non-stick pan over medium heat. Stir frequently until they become lightly browned and fragrant, around 3 to 5 minutes. Take care to not burn them which would turn the flavor bitter, then remove from heat and let cool.

Cook The Pasta:

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add the bow-tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta down. Set it aside to drain well.

Mix The Dressing:

Combine the poppy seed dressing, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, stir in a teaspoon of granulated sugar. Whisk gently until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

Combine The Salad:

In a large bowl, put the cooled pasta, chopped turkey, diced celery, dried cranberries, sliced green onions, and toasted pecans. Pour the dressing over and toss everything gently yet thoroughly to coat every bite. For best results, chill the salad for at least an hour before serving so the flavors meld beautifully.

This salad reminds me of family get-togethers when Thanksgiving leftovers turned into a whole new delicious meal. The crunch of pecans always brings a smile and the cranberries add that festive pop in color and taste.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The salad will keep well but the pecans may soften slightly, which can be restored by toasting fresh nuts next time. Avoid freezing as the dressing and pasta texture won’t hold up.

Ingredient Swaps

Use cooked chicken or ham instead of turkey to suit preferences. Swap celery with finely diced cucumber or bell pepper for a different crunch. For a dairy-free option, substitute mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and pick a suitable poppy seed dressing.

Serving Ideas

Serve as a hearty lunch with leafy greens on the side or as a potluck dish that everyone can enjoy. Add a wedge of lemon for extra brightness or sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley to elevate the fresh flavors. Pair with crusty bread or a simple soup for a balanced dinner.

This salad is a vibrant and comforting dish that adapts well to many variations and occasions.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use other types of pasta instead of bow-tie?

Yes, short pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle work well, as they hold dressing and mix easily with the ingredients.

→ How do I toast pecans properly?

Toast chopped pecans in a dry non-stick pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes. Cool before adding.

→ What makes the dressing flavorful?

The combination of poppy seed dressing, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and optional sugar creates a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet glaze that complements the salad’s ingredients.

→ Is it necessary to chill the salad before serving?

Chilling for at least an hour allows the flavors to blend and the dressing to absorb into the pasta and other components, enhancing overall taste.

→ Can this salad be prepared ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be assembled a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated, making it ideal for gatherings or meals on the go.