This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a tasty blend of juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and delicious pasta. Toss it all together with a zesty dressing for a fresh meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I like using rotini for its twists that hold onto the dressing and flavors. If you don’t have it, any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle will work just fine!
Cooked Chicken: Grilled chicken adds a nice smoky flavor. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even swap it for chickpeas if you want a vegetarian option!
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, but you can substitute with regular tomatoes, just make sure to chop them well. Sun-dried tomatoes could also add a unique flavor.
Kalamata Olives: They provide a tangy bite. If you don’t have them, green olives or capers can be a good replacement, depending on what flavor you prefer.
Feta Cheese: This adds creaminess and saltiness. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free version, try using tofu or a vegan cheese alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Doesn’t Become Soggy?
The key to a great pasta salad is preventing that soggy texture. Here are some tips:
- Cook the pasta al dente, so it still has a bit of bite after chilling.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process and cools it down.
- Make the salad just before serving or only a little ahead of time. Chilling for too long can release water from the veggies.
- Add dressing just before you serve, or store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat.
By following these tips, your Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad will stay fresh and flavorful!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled or pan-cooked)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15-20 minutes for preparation. You’ll spend a little time cooking the pasta and chopping the veggies, then just let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. It’s simple and quick, perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing 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 (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Salad Mix:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the diced cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, diced yellow bell pepper, chopped artichoke hearts, finely chopped red onion, and sliced kalamata olives. Mix gently until all ingredients are well distributed.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and everything is combined.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggie mix, tossing gently to ensure all ingredients are coated nicely with the dressing. This helps to give the salad that lovely flavor from the dressing!
5. Add Feta and Parsley:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the top of the salad. Give it a light toss to combine, being careful not to break up the feta too much.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, give the salad a final toss before serving. It can be served cold or at room temperature, making it a wonderful main dish or a vibrant side salad.
If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and colorful meal, this Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is perfect. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great choice for added fiber and nutrients. Just be sure to cook it slightly less than the package instructions suggest, as it can become softer than regular pasta.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
No problem! Simply omit the chicken and add some protein-rich chickpeas or white beans. You can also substitute with marinated tofu for an extra layer of flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give the salad a good stir before serving, and you might want to add a splash of olive oil or vinegar to freshen it up!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, spinach, arugula, or even roasted zucchini. Just make sure any extra veggies complement the dressing and overall flavor of the salad.
