Healthy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
A delightful dish combining tender pasta, juicy chicken, and fresh veggies with flavorful pesto, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced Store-bought rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to taste Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and pesto sauce.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and red onion.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
Serve cold or at room temperature. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese can add a nice finishing touch. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the pasta absorbs too much sauce, add a little more pesto before serving. Use whole-grain pasta for a healthier option, and feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients. Consider using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different take.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g
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