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Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes, and Spinach

760 kcal · 55 g protein · 15 minutes · 2 servings

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Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes, and Spinach

This hearty pasta salad combines nutty whole wheat rotini with tender grilled chicken, fresh cherry tomatoes, and vibrant spinach. Tossed in olive oil and topped with parmesan cheese, it’s a nutritious and flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

760 kcal 55 g protein 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • whole wheat rotini pasta cooked 1.5 cups
  • grilled chicken breast 6 oz
  • cherry tomatoes 1/2 cup
  • fresh spinach 1 cup
  • olive oil 1 tbsp
  • parmesan cheese 2 tbsp

Method

  1. Cook the Pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1.5 cups of whole wheat rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse briefly under cold water to cool it down and stop cooking.
    Tip: Rinsing pasta with cold water helps keep the salad fresh and prevents it from sticking.
  2. Prepare the Grilled Chicken. If your chicken breast is not already grilled, season it lightly with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice or cube into bite-sized pieces.
    Tip: Resting the chicken keeps it juicy and easier to slice.
  3. Prepare the Vegetables. Wash and dry the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly. Halve the cherry tomatoes carefully with a sharp knife.
    Tip: Dry spinach well to avoid watering down the salad.
  4. Combine Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, grilled chicken pieces, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach.
    Tip: Use a large bowl to toss ingredients easily without spilling.
  5. Dress the Salad. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the oil.
    Tip: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  6. Add Parmesan Cheese. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese over the salad. Toss lightly once more to distribute the cheese.
    Tip: Add parmesan just before serving to keep its texture.
  7. Serve. Divide the pasta salad evenly between two plates or bowls. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for a cooler salad.
    Tip: Chilling enhances flavors but serve within a few hours for best freshness.

Pro tips

  • Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain a firm texture in the salad.
  • Grill chicken with simple seasoning to keep the flavor clean and complementary.