Looking for a refreshing dish that combines vibrant flavors with a delightful crunch? Look no further than Pat's Ginger Chicken Pasta Salad! This fusion recipe is a perfect blend of tender rotini pasta, juicy chicken, and colorful vegetables, all tossed in a zesty ginger dressing. Whether you're planning a picnic, a potluck, or simply craving a quick and satisfying meal, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Ready to discover the secrets behind this mouthwatering dish? Let’s dive into the recipe that will become your new favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
Begin by boiling water in a large pot for the rotini pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. If using leftover cooked chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. If starting with raw chicken, cook it thoroughly by sautéing in a pan over medium heat until there is no pink remaining. Once cooked, set aside to cool.
Wash and prepare the vegetables: shred the carrots, dice the bell peppers, and slice the green onions. Place all the vegetables in a large bowl.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and honey to create the ginger dressing.
Add the cooled pasta and shredded chicken to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the ginger dressing over the pasta salad and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy your Pat's Ginger Chicken Pasta Salad.
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the rotini pasta until it's al dente for the best texture. This will help it hold up well in the salad and prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.
- Use Leftover Chicken: To save time, consider using leftover cooked chicken. It adds a great flavor and makes the preparation process even quicker!
- Prep Your Veggies Ahead: Shredding and dicing your vegetables ahead of time can streamline your cooking process. You can even prepare them the night before and store them in the refrigerator.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes (or longer if you can wait) lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like cucumbers, snap peas, or even edamame for added texture and nutrition.
- Make Extra Dressing: If you love a saucy pasta salad, consider making a little extra ginger dressing to drizzle on top just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 65mg
