This colorful pasta salad is a treat! It combines juicy strawberries, tender chicken, fresh spinach, and yummy pasta, all tossed in a light dressing.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This fun, spiral-shaped pasta holds onto the dressing well. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to use fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is great here for protein. In a pinch, canned chicken or rotisserie chicken, which is already cooked, can save you time. For a vegetarian version, try chickpeas or diced tofu.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice crunch and nutrition. You can swap it with arugula or mixed greens if desired. Even kale works well when chopped finely!
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring sweetness. If they’re out of season, blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples or peaches can work too!
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add a nice crunch and healthy fats; however, you can replace them with pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds if allergies are a concern.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu seasoned with a little lemon juice to mimic feta’s taste.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: A homemade dressing can elevate the salad. Try a mix of olive oil, vinegar, honey, and mustard for a fresh flavor. Store-bought vinaigrettes work too!
How Do I Get the Right Texture in My Salad?
Getting the right texture in this salad is essential for a satisfying bite. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Make sure the pasta is al dente—this gives structure to your salad so it doesn’t become mushy.
- Spinach should be fresh and crisp, so wash and dry the leaves thoroughly before using to avoid sogginess.
- Gently toss the ingredients to avoid squishing the strawberries and feta to maintain their shape.
Letting the salad sit for about 30 minutes in the fridge after tossing helps everything blend together beautifully without losing that fresh crunch!
How to Make Strawberry Chicken and Spinach Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Components:
- 2 cups cooked rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and if you choose to let it chill, add another 30 minutes. It’s a quick and nutritious meal perfect for any time of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, fresh spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and chopped walnuts. These ingredients come together for a delightful burst of flavor!
2. Toss Together Gently:
Using your hands or a large spoon, gently toss the ingredients together. You want to mix everything evenly without breaking the strawberries or spinach leaves.
3. Add the Feta Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad. Take care to mix it in gently to keep the cheese intact and add its creamy goodness to every bite!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, then season with a little salt and pepper. This adds a nice zing! Make sure to toss everything together again so that the dressing coats all the ingredients nicely.
5. Serve or Chill:
If you can wait, let the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together beautifully. Otherwise, serve it immediately and enjoy your refreshing salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the rotini with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions for the best texture!
What If I Don’t Have Walnuts?
No problem! You can swap walnuts for any nuts you have on hand, like almonds, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Just remember to chop them into smaller pieces for better distribution in the salad.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the spinach may become a bit wilted, but the flavors will still be delicious! If you’re worried about sogginess, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can add ingredients like avocado for creaminess, or substitute the strawberries with other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges. Feel free to get creative with it!
