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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its twisty shape that holds onto dressings well. If rotini isn’t available, you can swap it for fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

Cooked Chicken: Shredded or chopped rotisserie chicken is my go-to for quick prep. You can also use leftover grilled chicken, canned chicken, or even a plant-based chicken substitute if you prefer a vegetarian option.

Cottage Cheese: This ingredient gives the salad creaminess. If you’re looking for a lactose-free alternative, try a plant-based yogurt or cream cheese. Greek yogurt could work too, though it’s a bit tangier!

Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, feel free to substitute with diced regular tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different texture and flavor.

How Do I Perfectly Cook Pasta for This Salad?

Cooking pasta correctly is essential for the right salad texture. Here’s how to do it:

• Start with a large pot and bring salted water to a boil – this adds flavor to the pasta.
• Add the rotini and cook as per the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes for al dente.
• Taste a piece a minute or two before the time is up to check if it’s cooked just right – firm but not hard.
• Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
• This keeps it from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.

Following these tips will help you achieve a pasta salad with the perfect texture—enjoy! 🍽️

Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces rotini pasta (about 2 cups uncooked)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens for serving
• 2 strips cooked bacon, crumbled (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you’re looking at roughly 50 minutes total to make it deliciously ready to serve!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside.

2. Combine the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, shredded or chopped cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and finely chopped red onion. It will look colorful and inviting!

3. Mix in the Creamy Base:

Add the cottage cheese and olive oil into the bowl. Mix everything gently with a spatula or wooden spoon, making sure the cottage cheese evenly coats the pasta and chicken for a creamy texture.

4. Season and Garnish:

Stir in the chopped fresh parsley to bring in some freshness. Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary for your preference.

5. Serve & Enjoy:

If you like, you can serve the salad over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for an added crunch. For an extra flavorful touch, sprinkle some crumbled cooked bacon on top just before serving.

6. Chill Before Serving:

For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve cool and enjoy your refreshing Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad!

This salad is perfect for lunch, potlucks, or a light dinner. Happy cooking! 🍽️

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is a great choice for holding sauce, you can easily swap it for other types like fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the type of pasta you choose.

How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables! Chopped bell peppers, olives, or even beans can boost the protein and flavor without using meat. You may also want to consider adding some diced avocado for extra creaminess.

Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just hold off on adding the greens and bacon until you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may soak up some of the dressing, so you might want to add a little extra olive oil or cottage cheese when reheating to refresh the dish.