This healthy chicken pasta salad is a colorful mix of tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and fresh basil. It’s a wonderful choice for a light meal or a refreshing side dish!
I love how easy it is to whip up! You can make it in no time, and it’s perfect for lunch or a picnic. Plus, it’s a great way to eat some greens without feeling like you’re missing out! 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This shape holds the dressing well, making every bite tasty! If you prefer, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works too. Quinoa or zucchini noodles are also great substitutes for a low-carb option.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced rotisserie chicken makes life easy. If you don’t eat chicken, consider chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost. Grilled shrimp also fits nicely!
Avocado: Ripe avocados add creaminess. If you can’t find avocados, try using Greek yogurt for a similar texture, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Cherry Tomatoes: The burst of sweetness in cherry tomatoes is lovely. You could use halved grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes in a pinch.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. If unavailable, a teaspoon of dried basil can work, but fresh makes a significant difference. Parsley is another alternative if you want a different herb taste.
How Do I Cook the Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta to the right texture, or al dente, matters since it will hold up in the salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes.
- Check a minute or two before the timer goes off; it should be firm but tender.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
This trick helps ensure your pasta doesn’t get mushy in the salad!
Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, and Basil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You will spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and mixing the salad, and then you have the option to chill it for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Quick and healthy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be cooked but still have a little firmness. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This also helps stop the cooking process.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and fresh basil. These vibrant ingredients will come together beautifully!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing enhances the taste of the salad while keeping everything light and fresh.
4. Combine and Serve:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mix and gently toss everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. You can serve this salad immediately, or if you prefer, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. Grab a fork and enjoy your healthy chicken pasta salad!
Can I Substitute the Pasta for a Gluten-Free Option?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free rotini or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they might differ from regular pasta.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the avocado will brown over time, so try to enjoy it fresh for the best flavor and texture!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Bell peppers, cucumbers, or even spinach would make great additions. Just chop the veggies into bite-sized pieces and mix them in with the other ingredients for more color and nutrients.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No problem! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil as a substitute. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead of 1/4 cup of fresh. You can also try using other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile!
