This Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad is a creamy and tasty meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Loaded with chicken, pasta, and fresh veggies, it’s as colorful as it is delicious!
Add a dollop of cottage cheese for a boost of protein that keeps you full. I love making this on warm days when a light, cool dish sounds just right. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This shape is great for holding onto the dressing, but you can easily use any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat or gluten-free options if needed.
Cooked Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver for this dish! It’s already cooked and adds flavor. If you’re vegetarian or want a lighter version, replace it with cooked chickpeas or tofu.
Cottage Cheese: I love using low-fat cottage cheese for its creaminess and protein. Greek yogurt can be a great alternative if you’re looking for something tangier and equally healthy.
Fresh Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add color and crunch. Feel free to swap them for bell peppers, corn, or even diced avocado for extra creaminess!
How Do You Make the Perfect Dressing for Pasta Salad?
The dressing ties everything together and makes the salad taste fresh. Here’s how to nail it:
- Combine cottage cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Whisk until smooth. The cottage cheese provides a creamy texture, while lemon juice adds brightness!
- Season with salt and pepper. Taste it and adjust as needed. A little extra lemon or a spice can really enhance the flavor.
- Drizzle the dressing over the pasta and toss gently to coat. This ensures every bite is delicious.
Chilling the salad allows flavors to mingle and makes it even tastier. Enjoy your refreshing Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad!
Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in just about 45 minutes, your healthy and tasty meal will be ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked pasta and shredded chicken. This combination forms the hearty base of your salad!
3. Add Fresh Veggies:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. These colorful veggies will not only add crunch but also vibrant flavors.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard (if using) until it’s smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. This creamy dressing brings everything together beautifully.
5. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture, and gently toss everything together until it’s evenly coated. Make sure all the pasta and veggies are nicely dressed!
6. Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle in the chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color. Give it one last gentle stir.
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all those delicious flavors to meld together.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad a quick toss before serving. Enjoy your refreshing and nutritious Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad either as a main dish or a side!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this salad. You can also use any cooked chicken you have on hand, like grilled or baked chicken breasts.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! You can make it up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative with your veggies! Bell peppers, sweet corn, broccoli, or even avocados are fantastic additions. Just chop them into small pieces for easy mixing.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, give it a little stir and enjoy it cold or at room temperature!