This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is colorful and tasty! With juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and fresh tomatoes, it’s a meal that feels refreshing.
I’m always amazed how this salad is filling yet light. Perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s quick to make, so you can enjoy it without much fuss. Yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its fun shape that holds the dressing nicely. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.
Chicken: Cooked rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s so convenient! You could also use leftover grilled chicken or even shredded canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess; if you’re allergic or don’t have any, consider using a bit of Greek yogurt for a similar texture without the flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: I like sweet cherry tomatoes because they add freshness. If you can’t find these, chopped regular tomatoes work well too, though you might want to drain excess water.
Fresh Basil: Basil is key for flavor! If you don’t have fresh basil, try using a teaspoon of dried basil or even fresh parsley for a different taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tang if you like; you can swap it for goat cheese or leave it out altogether for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Make Sure Your Pasta Salad Stays Fresh?
Preventing your pasta salad from turning mushy or soggy is essential. Here are some tips to keep it fresh:
- **Cool Your Pasta:** After cooking, always rinse your pasta under cold water. This halts the cooking process and keeps the pasta firm.
- **Dress Just Before Serving:** If you’re not serving the salad right away, keep the dressing separate until right before serving. This helps maintain the texture of the ingredients.
- **Add Avocado Last:** To avoid browning, add the diced avocado just when you mix everything together or directly before serving.
- **Store in the Fridge:** If prepping ahead, make sure your salad is in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad With Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Feta cheese crumbles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you choose to refrigerate it for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld, the total time will be around 45 minutes. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it off. Set it aside to let it drain thoroughly.
2. Combine Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped basil. Gently mix everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and add more salt or pepper if needed to suit your taste.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything gently so that the dressing coats the ingredients without mashing the avocado.
5. Garnish and Serve:
If you love the flavor of feta cheese, sprinkle some crumbles on top of the salad for extra flavor. You can serve the salad immediately, or if you have a bit of patience, cover it and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps to enhance the flavors. Enjoy your fresh and tasty chicken pasta salad!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor, while gluten-free pasta options are widely available. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary slightly from traditional pasta.
What Can I Substitute for the Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado or don’t have one on hand, you can substitute it with diced cucumbers or even some cooked and cooled peas for a refreshing crunch. Alternatively, you can use Greek yogurt for a creamier texture!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb the dressing, so consider adding a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just remember to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.
