why make this recipe
Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines tender chicken, colorful veggies, and tangy feta to create a satisfying meal. This salad is not only easy to make but also healthy, making it a great option for lunch or a summer gathering. Best of all, it’s a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking!
how to make Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbles
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Directions:
- Cook the seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden brown and fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before dicing.
- Boil pasta according to package instructions; drain without rinsing.
- Chop the vegetables and combine them with pasta, chicken, feta, olives, and herbs in a large bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture; toss gently to combine.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving it chilled.
how to serve Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad on a large platter or individual bowls. It’s perfect as a main dish or a side. You can also garnish it with extra feta, olives, or fresh herbs for an attractive presentation. This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light vinaigrette.
how to store Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. To prevent the pasta from getting soggy, you can store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
tips to make Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
- Use leftover chicken for a quicker preparation time.
- To enhance flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
- For extra crunch, throw in some bell peppers or zucchini.
- If you want more protein, add chickpeas or lentils.
variation
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. For example, you can use quinoa instead of pasta for a gluten-free option or try a different cheese, like goat cheese. Adding artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes can also give it an extra Mediterranean flair.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the salad a few hours before serving. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator.
2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it a great meal prep option for busy weekdays.
3. Can I freeze the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbles
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden brown and fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before dicing.
- Boil pasta according to package instructions; drain without rinsing.
- Chop the vegetables and combine them with pasta, chicken, feta, olives, and herbs in a large bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture; toss gently to combine.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving it chilled.