Chicken and Pasta Salad with Vegetables

This delightful chicken and pasta salad is a perfect fusion of tender pasta, savory dried chicken, and vibrant vegetables. Ideal for a quick lunch, picnic, or side dish, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of peas and corn adds a sweet crunch, while paprika provides a subtle smoky flavor. Tossed in creamy mayonnaise, this salad is both comforting and refreshing. It's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, making it a versatile dish. With just 30 minutes to prep and cook, it's an excellent choice for busy days. This salad not only satisfies hunger but also teases the palate with its colorful variety.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Pasta (preferably small-sized, as per taste)
• Peas
• Corn
• Dried chicken

Sauce and Spices:

• Mayonnaise
• Salt
• Pepper
• Pasta seasoning
• Paprika

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling your choice of small-sized pasta in a large pot of water. Add a pinch of salt to the water for flavor. Cook until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.
2. Drain and Cool: Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, gather the peas and corn. If using canned, drain them thoroughly. If frozen, give them a quick blanch in boiling water for just a minute, then rinse under cold water.
4. Chop the Chicken: Take your dried chicken and cut it into small, bite-sized cubes. This adds a hearty texture to the salad.
5. Dice the Paprika: Finely dice the paprika for a pop of color and subtle heat in the salad.
6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, peas, corn, diced chicken, and paprika.
7. Add the Dressing: Add a generous scoop of mayonnaise to the salad mixture, enough to coat all the ingredients evenly.
8. Season to Taste: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and pasta seasoning to your liking, stirring well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
9. Adjust Consistency: If the salad feels too thick, a tablespoon of milk can be added to loosen the mayonnaise slightly.
10. Chill the Salad: For the best results, cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
11. Final Touches: Just before serving, give the salad a final toss. Sprinkle a little extra paprika over the top for garnish and extra flavor.
12. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. It’s perfect on its own or as a side dish.
13. Store Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
14. Re-shap: Before re-serving, refresh the salad with an additional spoonful of mayonnaise if needed.
15. Extra Crunch: For those who enjoy a bit more texture, toasted bread crumbs or chopped nuts can be added.
16. Spice It Up: A dash of chili flakes or hot sauce can be drizzled for those who enjoy extra spice.
17. Pair it Right: Pair this salad with fresh breadsticks or a leafy green salad for a complete meal.
18. Creatively Adapt: Feel free to swap dried chicken with grilled or roasted chicken for a varied taste.
19. Vegetarian Substitute: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add chickpeas or tofu chunks.
20. Enjoy! Finally, enjoy the flavors of your carefully crafted chicken and pasta salad.

Tips

• Mayonnaise Substitute: Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used for a tangy twist.
• Additional Vegetables: Add diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
• Flavor Booster: A tablespoon of lemon juice can be added to brighten the overall flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbs: 35g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta alternatives like rice pasta or quinoa pasta.
• Vegan Option: Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo and chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh.

Serving Suggestions

• On the Side: Pair with garlic bread or a simple garden salad.
• As a Main: Serve alongside grilled fish or steamed vegetables for a full meal.

Best Places

• The Pasta House Co. - Famous for its delightful pasta creations, including fun and colorful salads.
  • Location: 8213 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
• Il Pastaio - A charming spot with a focus on homemade pastas and fresh ingredients.
  • Location: 307 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, California, USA
• Pasta Eataly - Offers a variety of authentic Italian dishes, pasta salads being a highlight.
  • Location: 200 5th Ave, New York, NY, USA
• Barilla Restaurant - Known for its delicious pasta salads and Italian comfort food.
  • Location: 1290 6th Ave, New York, NY, USA
• Trattoria Vecchia Roma - A traditional Italian trattoria serving exquisite pasta and salads.
  • Location: Via Delle Carine, Rome, Italy
• La Pasta Bistro - Perfect for inventive salads and classic pasta dishes.
  • Location: 2200 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC, USA
• Mama Pasta - Renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and delightful pasta salads.
  • Location: Rue du Mont-Blanc 5, Geneva, Switzerland
• Pasta Fresca Da Salvatore - Offers authentic homestyle pasta and fresh salads.
  • Location: 30 Victoria St, Singapore
• Café Pasta Milano - A quaint café known for its rich and flavorful pasta dishes.
  • Location: Corso Garibaldi 42, Milan, Italy
• Pasta Lovers Trattoria - Celebrated for its creative pasta menu and savory salads.
  • Location: 142 W 49th St, New York, NY, USA