This Strawberry Chicken and Spinach Pasta Salad is a colorful and tasty dish! It mixes juicy strawberries, tender chicken, and fresh spinach with pasta for a delightful meal.
I love how the sweet strawberries add a lovely twist to the salad. And let’s be honest, it’s a great way to enjoy some greens without feeling like a rabbit! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This curly pasta holds onto the dressing and flavors really well. If you don’t have rotini, any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle would work just fine.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to! It’s convenient and adds great flavor. For a lighter option, you can use grilled chicken breast or even substitute with tofu for a vegetarian choice.
Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach is tender and mild. You could swap it for arugula for a peppery kick or kale for something heartier, but massage the kale a bit to soften it.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are sweet and juicy. If they’re not in season, you can switch to blueberries or even citrus segments like mandarin oranges for a different flavor.
Walnuts: They add a nice crunch, but feel free to use pecans or almonds if you prefer. For a nut-free version, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Feta Cheese: This cheese is creamy and adds a tangy flavor. If you have lactose issues, crumbled tofu can stand in, or use a dairy-free feta.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad is Perfectly Tossed?
Tossing your salad might sound simple, but it’s key to making sure every bite is flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with cooled pasta. Rinse it under cold water after cooking. This stops the cooking process and prevents it from getting mushy.
- Add your ingredients gradually. Layer the chicken, spinach, strawberries, walnuts, and feta to avoid crushing any delicate components.
- For dressing, whisk it well before adding. This ensures all flavors blend together. Pour it over the salad and use a gentle hand to toss, so everything is coated without breaking the pasta or spinach.
Letting the salad chill for about 30 minutes is a great trick! It helps the flavors mix and gives a refreshing taste when served. Enjoy your tasty pasta salad!
How to Make Strawberry Chicken and Spinach Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you choose to chill it in the fridge, add another 30 minutes. So, you can have this dish ready to enjoy in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta. Follow the package instructions for the best results. Once it’s cooked to al dente, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This step helps prevent mushy pasta in your salad!
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, walnuts (if you’re using them), and crumbled feta cheese. Give everything a gentle toss to mix the ingredients nicely together.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey (if you like a touch of sweetness). Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk well until everything is combined into a smooth dressing.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This is where the flavors start to come together!
5. Serve or Chill:
You can serve your salad immediately for a fresh crunch. If you’d like the flavors to meld together a bit more, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your tasty and colorful dish!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can easily swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, diced turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any alternative protein is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify, so it’s great for make-ahead meals. Just give it a good toss before serving again!
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use gluten-free rotini pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. Just cook it according to package instructions and follow the same preparation steps for a delicious gluten-free salad.
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Definitely! You can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness of the dressing if your chosen fruit is less sweet than strawberries!
