Cook the pasta according to package instructions, salting the water generously for flavor.

While the pasta cooks, prep the salad dressing with greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and any optional add-ins like peas or sausage.

Toss the salad with the dressing to combine thoroughly.

For creamy beef and shells, brown ground beef with onions, add garlic, and then cooked shells, broth, cream cheese, and cheddar.

For sausage pasta, brown sliced sausage, add garlic, and either marinara or cream sauce.

For slow cooker mac and cheese, combine uncooked elbow macaroni, shredded cheese, milk, and butter in a slow cooker.