This colorful chicken pasta salad is packed with fresh flavors! With juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tender chicken mixed in pasta, it’s a tasty and healthy meal.
I love how quick it is to whip up this salad. Perfect for lunch or a picnic! Plus, you can adjust the veggies to your liking—no wrong choices here! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This twisty shape holds onto the dressing and ingredients well. If you don’t have rotini, you can replace it with penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Chicken: I love using shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, that’s great too! For a vegetarian version, try chickpeas or tofu instead.
Avocado: Avocados add creaminess and healthy fats. If you can’t find ripe ones, consider using diced cucumber or even olives for a different twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy. If they’re out of season, you could use chopped regular tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes, just drain them well.
Fresh Herbs: I prefer spinach for its mild taste and crunch, but fresh basil adds a lovely fragrance. You can also use parsley or arugula if that’s what you have.
Feta Cheese: This adds a nice tang. If you’re dairy-free, omit it or try a dairy-free feta alternative for that salty kick.
How Do I Keep My Avocado from Mashing in the Salad?
Keeping the avocado intact while mixing is key for a vibrant salad. Here are some tips to handle it delicately:
- Dice the avocado just before mixing to prevent browning.
- Combine the pasta with other ingredients first, then gently fold in the avocado at the end.
- Use a spatula instead of a spoon to avoid mashing.
These steps help keep your salad looking fresh and colorful, so you can enjoy the best presentation!
Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad With Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach or basil, roughly chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 30 minutes if you choose to cool it in the fridge. It’s quick to make and perfect for a fresh meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. When it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This will help keep the pasta from sticking together.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled rotini pasta along with the shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and roughly chopped spinach or basil. Make sure everything is mixed together well!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing will add great flavor to your salad!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently. Be careful not to mash the avocado—it should stay in pieces. Make sure everything is nicely coated in the dressing!
5. Add the Feta (Optional):
If you like, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad for an extra burst of flavor. It’s totally optional, but delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
You can enjoy the salad right away or for best flavor, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the ingredients meld. Serve it chilled and enjoy your healthy chicken pasta salad!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Rotini?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute, providing more fiber and nutrients. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to soften compared to regular rotini.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Salad?
You can customize this salad with a variety of veggies! Bell peppers, cucumbers, or corn make excellent additions. Just chop them to a similar size as the other ingredients for an even mix.
How to Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The avocado may brown a bit, so consider adding it right before serving for the best appearance and freshness.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the chicken and feta cheese, and replace the dressing with a mix of olive oil and lemon juice. You can also add chickpeas or tofu for protein!
