This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes. It’s not just tasty; it’s good for you too!
Who knew salad could feel this good? I love having it for lunch, and the leftovers taste even better. Great for meal prep, or just because you can! 🥑🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its spiral shape that captures the dressing nicely. If you don’t have rotini, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works great too.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience and flavor. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a rush!
Avocado: The creamy texture of avocado adds richness. If you need a substitute, diced cucumber can provide a nice crunch instead, but it won’t have that same creamy feel.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little tomatoes burst with flavor and color. Substitute with any fresh tomatoes you have—just chop them up into smaller pieces.
Basil: Fresh basil is my favorite for its aromatic flavor. If you have dried basil on hand, it can work, but use less (about 1 teaspoon) as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Keep My Avocado from Browning?
To keep that beautiful green color in your avocado, you can use a little trick with lemon juice. The acidity helps stop browning. Here’s what to do:
- After dicing your avocado, toss it in the lemon juice before adding it to the salad.
- Also, keep the avocado pieces whole until just before serving to limit exposure to air.
These small steps will help ensure your salad stays vibrant and appetizing!
Why Is It Important to Chill the Salad Before Serving?
Chilling the pasta salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s why you should always give it some fridge time:
- The dressing soaks into the pasta and ingredients, enhancing the overall taste.
- It’s also refreshing to eat cold, especially on a warm day!
- Prep it ahead, and it’s ready when you are!
Give it at least 20 minutes in the fridge, or even longer if time allows!
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotini pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano/basil mix)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can have a delicious, healthy meal in roughly 35 minutes—perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops it from cooking further and cools it down quickly.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled rotini pasta with the shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped basil. It’s colorful and looks so refreshing!
3. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a zesty flavor to your salad!
4. Combining Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing for maximum flavor!
5. Chilling Before Serving:
Now, it’s time to let those flavors meld together. Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 20 minutes. This will also help the salad taste cool and refreshing!
6. Serving the Salad:
Once chilled, give the salad a quick taste and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper if needed. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for that lovely touch!
Enjoy your fresh, healthy chicken pasta salad as a delicious meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner! 🌱🍽️
FAQ About Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Tomato
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative that adds extra fiber and nutrients. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from regular pasta.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad with other veggies like bell peppers, cucumber, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Your salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it from drying out. Just remember that the avocado may brown a bit, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, and leave out the cheese (if you’re adding any). The salad will still be hearty and nutritious.
