Italian Pasta Salad

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6

📝 Ingredients List

• 16 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast strips (cooked and chilled)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta or mozzarella pearls
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (non-alcoholic)
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk for the dressing
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process 🍝.
2. While the pasta cooks, prepare your dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken strips, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and cheese.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until everything is evenly coated 🥗.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together perfectly.

💡 Pro Tips

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs the dressing, add a splash of olive oil before serving.
• Substitutions: Feel free to swap the chicken for smoked beef strips if you want a deeper flavor profile.
• Texture: Always rinse your pasta with cold water to ensure it doesn’t stick and keeps that perfect bite.

Variations

Change things up by adding roasted red peppers for a smoky sweetness, or toss in fresh baby spinach for extra nutrients. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes like farfalle or penne!

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! In fact, it is better after sitting for a few hours. Just reserve a little extra dressing to toss in right before serving.

Is this a healthy meal? This salad is a balanced mix of carbohydrates, lean protein, and fresh vegetables, making it a great light meal option.