Chicken Rotini Salad
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying gluten-free dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this Chicken Rotini Salad is just what you need. Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor, this salad is not only gluten-free but also easy to make. The combination of tender chicken, colorful veggies, and rotini pasta creates a delightful medley of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz gluten-free rotini pasta
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 English cucumber, diced
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the dressing:
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free rotini pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, basil, black olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Add the cooked rotini pasta to the bowl and gently toss again to mix all the ingredients together.
6. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed with more salt or pepper.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. When ready to serve, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or feta cheese if desired.
9. Enjoy this delightful Chicken Rotini Salad as a light meal or pack it for a picnic or lunch on-the-go.
This Chicken Rotini Salad is not only gluten-free but also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or avocado for an extra pop of color and nutrition. The tangy and zesty dressing ties all the flavors together, making each bite a burst of freshness. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a gathering, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious gluten-free meal that’s as easy to make as it is tasty.
