Introduction
Are you looking for a refreshing and delicious dish that’s perfect for a lunch or light dinner? This pasta salad combines the heartiness of rotini with the creamy texture of avocados and the savory flavors of chicken and fresh vegetables. With a zesty dressing to tie it all together, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds and provide a satisfying meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 8 ounces rotini pasta
– 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
– 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This vibrant pasta salad is quick to prepare and can be enjoyed immediately, or it can be made ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy a delightful dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and generously salt it. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool completely before proceeding.
Prepare the Salad Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken, 2 diced ripe avocados, 1/2 cup of finely diced red onion, and 1 cup of halved cherry or grape tomatoes. Add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves to the bowl as well.
Make the Dressing
In a small separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of white wine vinegar, 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
Toss the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss all ingredients together until the pasta, chicken, vegetables, and dressing are evenly coated.
Serve or Refrigerate
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh taste, or cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have avocados, consider using diced cucumbers for a crunchy texture. You can also use grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Make Ahead
This salad is perfect for meal prep or gatherings. Make it a day in advance to enhance the flavors, but be cautious with the avocado, as it may brown over time. You can add the avocado right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad pairs well with a light white wine or sparkling water. It also makes an excellent side dish at picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Boil water in a large pot with enough salt to season the pasta. Add the rotini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy.
Preparing the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine white wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until fully emulsified and well-mixed.
Mixing Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled rotini pasta, shredded chicken, diced avocados, finely diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated without mashing the avocados.
Serving and Storing
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste when served.
FAQ
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute rotini with other pasta shapes such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just ensure to adjust cooking times as needed.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can replace the chicken with diced tofu, chickpeas, or any grilled vegetables to make a vegetarian version of the dish.
How do I prevent avocados from browning?
To slow down the browning process, add a little lime or lemon juice to the diced avocados before mixing them in the salad.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal taste and freshness.
Conclusion
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of avocados with the heartiness of shredded chicken and the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for gatherings, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also versatile, allowing for easy modifications based on available ingredients or personal preferences.
Avocado and Shrimp Pasta Salad
Swap out the chicken for peeled and cooked shrimp and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty twist.
Italian Pasta Salad with Mozzarella
Incorporate bite-sized pieces of fresh mozzarella cheese along with the tomatoes and basil for a classic Italian flair.
Mexican-Inspired Pasta Salad
Add black beans, corn, diced red bell peppers, and a squeeze of lime juice, garnishing with cilantro instead of basil for a southwestern flavor.
Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Include roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a smoky and hearty addition to the dish.
Greek Pasta Salad
Mix in kalamata olives, cucumber, and feta cheese with a dressing of red wine vinegar and olive oil for a Mediterranean version.
