Oh boy, do I have a treat for you! Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my absolute favorite recipes—Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, and Basil. It’s colorful, refreshing, and packed with all the good stuff you crave in a meal. I can vividly remember the first time I made this salad; it was a hot summer day, and I wanted something light but filling for a family barbecue. My brother was skeptical about mixing pasta with salad, but boy, was he in for a surprise! He devoured two helpings that day, and it’s been a go-to dish ever since.
What makes this recipe unique is its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a casual weekday dinner, this pasta salad fits the bill! Plus, with the creaminess of avocado paired with the tangy bite of red onion and the fresh taste of basil, it’s like a summer party on your plate. Now let’s dive into the ingredients so you can whip this up in no time!
What’s in Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad?
Whole Wheat Fusilli Pasta: This is the hearty base of our salad! I love using whole wheat because it offers more fiber compared to regular pasta, keeping you satisfied for longer without feeling weighed down.
Cooked Chicken Breast: This can be shredded chicken breast from a rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken. It adds protein, making this salad not only delicious but also nutritious. Bonus points for convenience!
Ripe Avocado: If you swoon over creamy avocado like I do, you’re in for a treat! It adds a luscious texture and is a healthy source of fats, helping keep your heart happy.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and packed with vitamins, cherry tomatoes inject a pop of color and flavor into the salad. Plus, they offer a delightful crunch!
Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion adds a zesty bite that balances the creaminess of the avocado beautifully. If you find raw onion a bit too much, you can soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to tame down the flavor.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Nothing says “fresh” like basil! It brings an aromatic touch that makes this salad smell divine. Don’t skip on this one; fresh herbs can elevate any dish!
Olive Oil: A staple in my kitchen, olive oil is heart-healthy and brings richness to the dressing without being overwhelming.
Red Wine Vinegar: This helps to cut through the creaminess of the avocado and the richness of the olive oil for a balanced dressing.
Salt and Pepper: Classic seasoning! Always adjust to your taste. I love going ham on the pepper for a little extra kick!
Is Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is like a nutritional gold mine. It incorporates whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and plenty of fresh vegetables. The **whole wheat fusilli** gives you complex carbohydrates that are great for energy, while the **chicken breast** provides lean protein which is essential for muscle health. The **avocado** offers healthy fats that are beneficial for your heart and skin, and the **cherry tomatoes** are loaded with antioxidants.
However, keep in mind that while this salad is healthy, portion control is key, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. If you’re adding the salad to a meal, make sure to account for the other dishes you’ll be having with it. It’s all about balance, right?
Ingredients for Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad
– 2 cups whole wheat fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded (can use rotisserie chicken)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad?
1. Cook the **fusilli pasta** according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, **shredded chicken**, **diced avocado**, **halved cherry tomatoes**, **chopped red onion**, and **chopped basil**.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the **olive oil**, **red wine vinegar**, **salt**, and **pepper** to create a dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour to let the flavors meld before serving. Enjoy!
Delightful Tips for Your Perfect Pasta Salad
– **Add-ins & Substitutes**: Feel free to mix it up! You can toss in some chopped spinach or arugula for extra greens, or swap the chicken for some chickpeas if you want a vegetarian version.
– **Flavor Boost**: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of garlic powder in the dressing can give it an extra zing!
– **Make Ahead**: This salad is perfect for meal-prepping! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat so the pasta doesn’t get soggy.
I’m truly excited for you to give this Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, and Basil a try. It’s an explosion of flavors and textures that’s bound to impress anyone you share it with (or just enjoy it all by yourself—I won’t judge!). So roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and get cooking! When you do, please share your thoughts—I love hearing about your culinary adventures! Happy cooking!
