This Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad combines the nutty flavor of sesame with tender chicken and crisp vegetables, creating a refreshing and satisfying dish. The mix of pasta, snap peas, and carrots adds a delightful crunch, while the savory-sweet dressing ties all the flavors together perfectly.
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad offers both versatility and deliciousness. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your taste. It’s also a great option for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator and is easy to pack for on-the-go lunches.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (such as bow ties or rotini)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1 cup snap peas, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. - Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, snap peas, carrots, red bell pepper, green onions, and sesame seeds. - Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger. - Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Chill and Serve:
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Servings: 4 servings
Conclusion: A Versatile and Nutritious Salad
This Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors. With its crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and nutty sesame dressing, it’s a delightful choice for both quick lunches and light dinners. Easy to prepare and full of fresh ingredients, this salad is ideal for meal prep or as a refreshing option for warm weather dining. Enjoy this versatile and nutritious salad as a stand-alone meal or paired with your favorite sides for a complete and flavorful dining experience.
10 Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or macaroni. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions. - Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a different protein option. - How long does the salad last in the refrigerator?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s kept in an airtight container. - Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together. - Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients, like soy sauce, are gluten-free. - Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes to suit your taste. - What can I use instead of sesame seeds if I have an allergy?
If you have a sesame allergy, you can omit the sesame seeds and replace the sesame oil with another type of oil, like olive oil or canola oil. - Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken works perfectly. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the salad. - How can I make the salad spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing. - Can this salad be served warm?
While this salad is typically served cold, you can serve it warm if you prefer. Just make sure to cool the pasta slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients.