Description

A vibrant Spicy Crispy Pasta Salad with a creamy, tangy chili crisp yogurt dressing (plant-based) combining tender pasta, crispy smoked turkey bacon, fresh vegetables, and bold, spicy flavors. Perfect as a refreshing side or a satisfying main dish ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

250g small pasta shapes like fusilli or penne
4 strips smoked turkey bacon

Dressing

1 cup plant-based yogurt (natural)
2 tablespoons chili crisp (natural)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
1 tablespoon olive oil (natural)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)

Vegetables and Herbs

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until just al dente for a tender but firm texture. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: While the pasta cooks, pan-fry the smoked turkey bacon in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden. Remove and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil, then roughly chop into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Chili Crisp Yogurt Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine plant-based yogurt (natural), chili crisp (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and olive oil (natural). Whisk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If a thicker dressing is preferred, gently mix in the natural gelling agent until the desired consistency is reached.
Mix the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, crispy smoked turkey bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Pour the chili crisp yogurt dressing over and toss until evenly coated. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro for a refreshing herbal flavor.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature for a refreshing, spicy, and crispy pasta salad experience.

Notes

Cook pasta slightly under al dente to avoid mushiness after chilling.
Cook smoked turkey bacon just before mixing to keep its crunch.
Add fresh herbs like cilantro right before serving for maximum freshness.
Adjust chili crisp and vinegar gradually to balance spice and tang.
Use natural gelling agent sparingly to achieve desired dressing consistency.
Let the salad rest chilled to enhance the flavors before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: No baking
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: spicy pasta salad, crispy pasta salad, chili crisp yogurt dressing, plant-based pasta salad, smoky bacon pasta salad, quick pasta salad