Strawberry Chicken and Spinach Pasta Salad

Crafting a delightful dish like Strawberry Chicken and Spinach Pasta Salad can truly be a joyful experience. With its vibrant colors and a mix of flavors, this salad is bound to be a showstopper at your next gathering. Picture succulent pieces of grilled chicken paired with the sweetness of strawberries, all tossed together with fresh spinach. Plus, a zesty basil pesto vinaigrette brings everything together beautifully. You might be surprised how simple it is to create something that looks and tastes gourmet right in your own kitchen. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into making a salad that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to prepare!

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Why This Recipe Works

Crafting a light yet filling dish can be a challenge, but this Strawberry Chicken and Spinach Pasta Salad balances flavors and textures beautifully. The sweetness of strawberries harmonizes with savory grilled chicken, while the spinach adds a fresh crunch. A zesty basil pesto vinaigrette ties everything together, creating a salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Chicken and Spinach Pasta Salad

This dish offers versatility for meal prep or entertaining, appealing to both families and foodies alike. The combination of sweet and savory will tantalize your taste buds, while the bright colors make it visually appealing. Plus, it’s easy to customize, ensuring everyone can enjoy a dish that suits their palate.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons DeLallo basil pesto
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup DeLallo basil pesto (for vinaigrette)
• 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 ounces DeLallo whole wheat farfalle pasta or regular farfalle pasta
• 1 1/2 cups sliced or diced strawberries
• 1 cup packed baby spinach, chopped
• 2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds

Preparing the Marinade for the Chicken

Place the chicken in a freezer bag. Add in the basil pesto, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag while pressing out the air. Massage the marinade into the chicken, then let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours. This step is essential as it infuses the chicken with flavor.

Making the Pesto Vinaigrette

While the chicken marinates, prepare the vinaigrette. In a jar or bowl, combine 1/4 cup basil pesto, white balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and olive oil. Shake or whisk until well combined, and set aside. This dressing adds a burst of flavor to the salad and ties all the components together.

Grilling the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Spray the grill grates with oil and place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which should take approximately 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before dicing. Letting it rest ensures it stays juicy and tender.

Cooking the Pasta

Cook the farfalle pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Once cooked, rinse and drain it under cold water. This step cools the pasta down and stops the cooking process, which is key for a perfect salad texture.

Assembling the Salad

In a large serving bowl, toss the cooked pasta with half of the pesto vinaigrette. Add the diced grilled chicken, strawberries, chopped spinach, and toasted almonds. Season with salt and pepper, then pour in the remaining vinaigrette and stir until combined. The colorful ingredients make the salad look as wonderful as it tastes!

Adding the Goat Cheese

Gently fold in the crumbled goat cheese into the salad, either mixing it through carefully or arranging it on top for a beautiful presentation. The creamy goat cheese adds another layer of flavor that balances perfectly with the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Strawberry Chicken and Spinach Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s great on its own or as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. You’ll find it’s a lovely option for warm-weather dining or any gathering.

Tips for Success

• Marinating the chicken longer enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; it really makes a difference.
• Adjust the amount of basil pesto in the vinaigrette to taste. You might want it a little zippier or more mellow, depending on your preference.
• Make sure to rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and enhance the salad’s freshness. This simple step keeps your salad bright and enjoyable.

Variations

• Swap grilled chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. It’s fantastic to mix things up based on what you have on hand.
• Use other greens, such as arugula or kale, for added variety. Each green brings its own flavor, which can add a unique twist to the salad.
• Experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for unique flavors and textures. It’s fun to see what combinations you enjoy the most.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the goat cheese separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness. Enjoy the salad within a few days for the best flavor and texture!

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead; however, reserve the goat cheese and dress it just before serving for the best flavor.

2. Is this salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta in place of regular farfalle. There are great options available!

3. Can I add different fruits to this salad?
Absolutely! Apples, peaches, or mandarin oranges are delightful substitutes or additions, bringing their own sweetness and texture.

4. How can I make this salad vegan?
Swap the chicken for chickpeas or a plant-based protein, use vegan pesto, and omit the goat cheese. You’ll still have a delicious dish!

5. What’s a good side dish to pair with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled vegetables or a light soup, making for a complete meal that’s easy to enjoy.

The flavors of this Strawberry Chicken and Spinach Pasta Salad promise to leave a lasting impression. With its fresh ingredients and vibrant colors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with various alternatives to create your unique version. Enjoy the delicious melding of flavors, knowing that every bite is a celebration of nature’s bounty! Happy cooking!

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