Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Resting Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
For best flavor, let the salad chill longer (up to a few hours) if you have time, as the Cajun spices deepen and mellow in the fridge. If making ahead by a day, reserve a little extra dressing to stir in just before serving, since pasta absorbs moisture as it sits. You can easily make this dish lighter by using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and part of the mayonnaise, or make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and sausage and adding extra veggies such as corn or diced cucumber. Adjust the heat level by increasing or reducing the Cajun seasoning and cayenne, remembering that cold dishes mute spice slightly, so it should taste a bit bold before chilling. Use any sturdy short pasta shape that holds dressing well, and always cool the pasta completely before mixing to prevent the dressing from breaking or becoming greasy.