This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is packed with tasty ingredients like juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tender chicken, making it a satisfying meal. It’s colorful and fresh!
I love how quick it is to whip up this salad! Perfect for lunch or a light dinner. It’s a joy when I can enjoy something delicious and nutritious at the same time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and is more filling. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or spiralized veggies like zucchini or carrots for a lighter version.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver here! You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Avocado: A ripe avocado brings creaminess to the salad. If avocados aren’t in season, try adding diced bell peppers or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bring sweetness and juiciness. If they’re not available, any other tomatoes will do, or you can use sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Avocado Stays Fresh?
Avocados can brown quickly after cutting. To keep your diced avocado fresh, try these tips:
- Use fresh lemon juice; its acidity prevents browning.
- Gently fold in the avocado just before serving to minimize exposure to air.
- If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed against the avocado to reduce air contact.
Following these tips will help maintain that fresh taste in your dish!
Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad With Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, diced or shredded
Fresh Vegetables:
- 1 large ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced (optional for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and will need 30 minutes in the fridge if you want to serve it chilled, making a total of around 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. Set the pasta aside.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber (if you’re using it), finely chopped red onion, and chopped herbs. This mix will create a colorful and fresh base for your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This dressing is zesty and will add great flavor to your salad!
4. Toss Everything Together:
Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to squish the avocado just yet!
5. Add the Avocado:
Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado. Take care to mix it lightly so you don’t mash the avocado pieces; they should stay chunky!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. You want it to be flavorful and refreshing!
7. Serve or Chill:
Serve the salad immediately, or for an even cooler dish, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. It’s great either way!
Enjoy this fresh, healthy, and flavorful pasta salad with your family or friends! 🍽️
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use cooked shrimp, canned tuna, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just make sure the protein you choose is already cooked and ready to mix in.
How Do I Keep the Salad Fresh for Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the avocado from browning, you might want to add extra lemon juice or keep it separate until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, corn, or spinach. Just remember, you want to keep a balance of textures and flavors!
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Just prepare all the ingredients and mix them without the avocado. Add the avocado just before serving or the day you plan to eat it for the best freshness!
