Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Chicken and Berry Pesto Pasta Salad, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh berries, and creamy mozzarella enveloped in a rich pesto dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, this salad offers a refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads. With its colorful presentation and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to impress at any occasion. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with grilled vegetables for an added smoky flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups dry shell-shaped pasta (gluten-free if needed)
- 2 cooked boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 2 cups baby spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup strawberries (hulled and quartered)
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1/2 cup mini fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- 2 tablespoons white apple vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Rinse under cold water to cool and drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, diced chicken, chopped spinach, strawberries, blackberries, salt, and pepper. Toss gently.
- In a small bowl, whisk together pesto, white apple vinegar, and honey until smooth.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg