Description
Beat the heat this summer with our refreshing Summer Pasta Salad! This vibrant dish is a delightful combination of colorful vegetables, lean chicken, and whole grain pasta that promises to please everyone at your table. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; its bright flavors and customizable options make it a standout addition to any meal. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious salad packed with fresh ingredients and an Italian-inspired dressing that adds zest to every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 lb whole grain pasta
- 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 medium zucchini (diced)
- 1/2 large cucumber (peeled and diced)
- 2 grilled chicken breasts (chopped)
- 8 oz Italian salad dressing
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/3 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 cup arugula (chopped, optional)
- 1/2 – 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1/2 large red or sweet onion (diced)
- 1 small can sliced ripe olives (drained, optional)
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon pimenton or smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
- Pinch garlic powder
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped vegetables and chicken with the drained pasta.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving; enjoy immediately or chill for enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 230g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg