Ah, summer is upon us! And you know what that means—picnics, barbecues, and all the fresh, beautiful produce our gardens yield! I can already smell the delightful aroma of grilled chicken and enjoy the vibrant colors of sizzling veggies on the grill. One recipe that brings all those summer vibes together and makes my heart sing is my Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, and Basil. It totally embodies the spirit of the season!
This pasta salad is not just your average side dish; oh no, my friend! It’s a symphony of flavors and textures! The creamy avocado, the juicy tomatoes, and the fragrant basil come together with the heartiness of rotini pasta and shredded chicken. It feels light yet satisfies your hunger perfectly. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it the ideal dish for when you’re entertaining friends or just need a quick meal prep for your week. Let me tell you how to make this scrumptious salad!
What’s in Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad?
– Rotini Pasta: I love rotini for its spiral shape and how well it holds onto dressings, but feel free to swap in any pasta you have on hand—whole grain or gluten-free options work great too!
– Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken adds a nice protein kick to the salad. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time, or simply bake or grill your chicken beforehand. I often marinate mine in a little olive oil and lemon juice—so flavorful!
– Avocado: You simply can’t go wrong with avocado! It’s creamy, satisfying, and offers healthy fats. Just make sure to choose a ripe one for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
– Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, halved cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
– Red Onion: The finely chopped red onion gives a lovely crunch and a zing to the salad. If you find it too strong, soaking it in cold water for a few minutes can help mellow the flavor.
– Fresh Basil: Ah, the smell of fresh basil is pure magic! It brings a bright and aromatic touch to the salad. If you can’t access fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch—just use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
– Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for dressings. It’s rich in good fats and adds a depth of flavor.
– Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens everything up and balances the richness of the avocado.
– Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste—don’t skimp on flavor!
Is Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with nourishing ingredients. The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The pasta offers complex carbohydrates to keep your energy up throughout the day. The star of the show, the avocado, is loaded with healthy fats that are great for your heart. Plus, you get a fresh burst of vitamins from the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, keeping you feeling light and vibrant!
However, just a note for those who might be watching their fat intake—avocados, while healthy, are calorie-dense, so enjoy them in moderation if you’re on a diet. And if you happen to be sensitive to raw onion, you might want to reduce the amount or skip it entirely.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad?
1. Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down so we don’t end up with mushy pasta!
2. In a large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh basil. Think of it as the vibrant colors of summer coming together in your bowl!
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing is the magic potion that brings everything together.
4. Pour the dressing over your pasta salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Be as gentle as your grandmother would be with a fine china plate!
5. Serve immediately for a fresh taste or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let all those delightful flavors meld together. Enjoy it cold, especially on a warm day!
Delicious Additions and Serving Suggestions
Want to take this salad up a notch? Here are some of my favorite variations:
– Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist!
– Toss in some nuts or seeds (like pine nuts or sunflower seeds) for an extra crunch.
– For a kick, throw in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
– Serve it in lettuce cups for a fun, low-carb option.
Whatever you choose, this pasta salad is bound to bring smiles and satisfy everyone at your table!
So there you have it! If you’re looking for a dish that’s light, colorful, and totally delicious, give my Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad a whirl. I promise it’ll become a favorite in your home too. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you! And don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
