Perfectly Balanced Pasta Salad Recipe

Looking for a fresh twist on your pasta salad? Try this perfectly balanced pasta salad recipe! This dish is packed with vibrant vegetables and has just the right amount of creamy dressing to complement the pasta. It's a great side dish or light meal that you can prepare in under 30 minutes and serve for up to six people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) of your favorite pasta
• 2 cups (200g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, sliced thinly
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 3 green bell peppers, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 avocado, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 2 tbsp (30ml) lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, for topping

Instructions:

1. Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables (tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, bell peppers). Mix gently but thoroughly so that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste it; adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more lemon or herbs to suit your preference.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything gently until all components are well coated with the dressing.
5. Let the salad sit for about 15 minutes before serving, allowing flavors to meld together perfectly. If desired, crumble some feta cheese over top just before serving.
6. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated up to two days in advance. Keep it covered until ready to serve, ensuring that the pasta doesn't absorb excess moisture from the vegetables.

Why this recipe stands out:

The key to an amazing pasta salad lies in its ability to combine various flavors into one dish seamlessly. By choosing fresh ingredients and balancing them carefully, you create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that delight your palate every time. Whether you're hosting casual dinner parties or simply enjoy making meals at home, this recipe will satisfy everyone's craving for something light yet satisfying.

Health benefits:

This pasta salad is not only tasty but also nutritious! Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and A, helping to strengthen your immune system. Red onions provide antioxidants while keeping blood pressure levels under control. Bell peppers are excellent sources of vitamin C and fiber which aid digestion and boost energy. Avocados contribute healthy fats that support brain health and heart function.

Storage tips:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container inside your refrigerator for up to two days after preparation. For best results, mix again before enjoying cold from the fridge or let sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes if you prefer warm pasta salads.

Cooking time: Approximately 35 minutes (including cooking time and cooling)Servings: Serves approximately 6

Perfectly Balanced Grilled Chicken Salad

Keyword: grilled chicken salad

Looking for a refreshing and filling lunch that’s packed with flavor and nutrients? Look no further than our grilled chicken salad. This recipe is perfect for those who love a tangy, slightly smoky, yet light and healthy meal. It’s ideal for busy weekdays or weekend gatherings when you want something different from your usual fare. Not only does it taste delicious, but this grilled chicken salad also offers a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and heart-healthy fats.

Let's get started with the cooking process. This recipe serves four people, making it perfect for a light meal or as part of a larger buffet. The entire preparation takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including the time required for grilling the chicken breast. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 cucumber, chopped into cubes
• 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula and spinach)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• Dressing of your choice (we recommend a lemon vinaigrette for this salad)

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Set aside.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them and turn to coat evenly. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes but no longer than 30 minutes. This ensures the flavors penetrate the meat, making it both juicy and flavorful when grilled.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

3. Preheat your grill to medium heat. While waiting for the grill to warm up, pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
4. Lay the chicken breasts on the grates and cook for about 8-10 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check this. Once done, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber cubes, red bell pepper slices, and avocado chunks.
5. Cut the grilled chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add these to your salad along with crumbled feta cheese.
6. Drizzle your dressing of choice over the salad just before serving. The lemon vinaigrette not only enhances all the flavors but also complements the smokiness from grilling perfectly.

Tips for Success:

• Marinate Well: Make sure your chicken breasts are well marinated; this will ensure they remain juicy and tender during cooking.
• Select Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and a ripe avocado makes all the difference in taste. The fresher the produce, the better the final result!
• Balance Your Salad: A salad with a good balance of greens, proteins (chicken), fruits or vegetables, and cheeses provides more nutritional value.

Conclusion:

The grilled chicken salad is not only simple to prepare but also a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you're looking for something quick during the week or a delightful option for guests at your home, this salad ticks all the right boxes. With its combination of savory grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, zesty dressing, and creamy feta, it promises to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Try serving it with a side of whole-grain rolls or some naan bread for extra carbs if you prefer. You can also consider adding a few nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or walnuts on top for additional crunch and healthy fats. Enjoy this versatile dish anytime, anyplace!

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings